microtome

[mahy-kruh-tohm]

noun

1. an instrument for cutting very thin sections, as of organic tissue, for microscopic examination.

microtome

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌtəʊm /

noun

1. an instrument used for cutting thin sections, esp of biological material, for microscopical examination

Other Word Forms

• microtomic adjective
• microtomist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of microtome¹

First recorded in 1855–60; micro- + -tome

Example Sentences

Embryonic tissue was too delicate to withstand pressure from the clasp of a microtome.

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King George III commissioned him to make an elaborate instrument for recording atmospheric pressure, and he pioneered the microtome, a device for cutting ultra-fine slivers of wood for microscopic analysis.

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Next, they used a machine called a microtome to cut the brain into 7,400 ultra-thin slices, each just 20 micrometers thick.

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After hardening, sections were obtained of the paint film by means of a microtome.

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The two former microtomes are provided with an automatic feed attachement.

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