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Showing results for microstructure. Search instead for microstructural.

microstructure

American  
[mahy-kroh-struhk-cher] / ˈmaɪ kroʊˌstrʌk tʃər /

noun

Metallurgy.
  1. the structure of a metal or alloy as observed, after etching and polishing, under a high degree of magnification.


microstructure British  
/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌstrʌktʃə /

noun

  1. structure on a microscopic scale, esp the structure of an alloy as observed by etching, polishing, and observation under a microscope

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of microstructure

First recorded in 1880–85; micro- + structure


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Earlier efforts to improve the plasticity of CoAl focused on changing its composition, adjusting its microstructure, or combining it with other materials.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 31, 2026

The group combines material synthesis, in situ nanomechanical testing, and advanced atomic-scale microstructure analysis to develop metallic materials that are both strong and deformable.

From Science Daily ● Jul. 31, 2026

Nonetheless, they warn that these “rotations can work for brief periods, but unless there is a structural shift in the economy, the microstructure of the equity market almost ensures such rotations will be short-lived.”

From Barron's ● Nov. 19, 2025

"Computer models can describe various length scales, from the arrangement of atoms in electrode materials to their microstructure to the cell as the functional unit of any battery," Daubner says.

From Science Daily ● May 21, 2024

Nickel can be alloyed with steel in various percentages, each percentage having a very definite effect on the microstructure.

From The Working of Steel Annealing, Heat Treating and Hardening of Carbon and Alloy Steel by Fred H. (Fred Herbert) Colvin

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