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

Aluminum's strength depends heavily on its microstructure, particularly the size and density of tiny internal features called "precipitates."

From Science Daily • Dec. 29, 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

"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

By further developing magnetic materials with even higher anomalous Nernst coefficients through microstructure control, the team aims to apply this technology to energy conversions in electronic devices and to thermal sensing technologies.

From Science Daily • May 9, 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)