naked eye

Idioms  

1. Sight unassisted by an instrument such as a microscope or telescope. For example, These insects are too small to be seen with the naked eye. This expression was first recorded in 1664.

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Example Sentences

Unlike many previous experiments, this system is visible to the naked eye and operates on a compact device about one foot tall that can be held in your hand.

From Science Daily • Mar. 22, 2026

For nearly 150 years, paleontologists in this region have relied largely on surface collecting methods, which tend to yield larger fossils visible to the naked eye while tiny specimens remain hidden.

From Science Daily • Mar. 3, 2026

"Whilst many of these magnetic storms are not visible with the naked eye, they can be picked up with modern phone cameras and photographic equipment."

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2026

With the naked eye, they looked like sand-colored specks.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

Scientists now know that even volcanoes that aren’t active to the naked eye have vents and pathways that may seethe under the surface.

From "Mountain of Fire" by Rebecca E. F. Barone