Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

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.

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

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

"Our results show that regular pasta has higher tolerance, or better structural resistance, to less optimal cooking conditions such as being cooked for too long or too much salt being added to the water. So, cooking pasta with the right amount of salt is not just a matter of taste -- it also affects the microstructure of the pasta and thus the whole dining experience," says Andrea Scotti.

From Science Daily

While prior studies have identified injuries to the brain's white matter in soccer players, Dr. Lipton and colleagues utilized a new approach to an advanced brain imaging technique called diffusion MRI to analyze microstructure close to the surface of the brain.

From Science Daily

They employed advanced metallurgical analysis techniques, including scanning transmission electron microscopy coupled with electron energy loss spectroscopy, to investigate the composition and microstructure of the protective oxide layers formed on the alloy surfaces.

From Science Daily