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

"To show that hyoid microstructure would work to test maturity status in Nanotyrannus, we first had to compile strong support for this method across many groups of living reptiles and extinct dinosaurs," said Dr. Griffin.

From Science Daily • Dec. 9, 2025

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

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 • Nov. 25, 2024

The main focus of the development of magnetic materials for transverse thermoelectric conversion has been the exploration of new alloys based on electronic structure, with no research on the microstructure within the materials.

From Science Daily • May 9, 2024

To obtain the best results in machining, the microstructure of the metal should be determined and a hardness range set that covers the variations in structure that produce good machining results.

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