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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of microstructure

First recorded in 1880–85; micro- + structure

Example Sentences

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

The eggshell microstructure indicates that these crocodiles likely nested along the edges of a lake and adjusted their reproductive strategies as conditions shifted over time.

From Science Daily • Nov. 15, 2025

The proposed digital twins of the Nd-Fe-B magnets are precise enough in reproducing both the microstructure and magnetic properties that can be implemented for the inverse problem in designing on-demand high-performance permanent magnets.

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 2024

A new approach to reconstruct the real microstructure of ultrafine-grained Nd-Fe-B magnets in large-scale models is proposed in this research.

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 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 Colvin, Fred H. (Fred Herbert)