Definition

A tool used to slice very thin pieces of material, especially biological tissues, so they can be examined under a microscope.

Example

The scientist used a microtome to prepare the tissue samples for analysis.

Conversation

Have you ever used a microtome in the lab?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it makes cutting samples much easier.

Yeah, it really helps to get thin sections for observation.

I should try it out next time; it sounds pretty useful!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Microtome → It is formed from "micro-" (from Greek "mikros", meaning small) and "tome" (from Greek "tomē", meaning a cutting or slice). A microtome is an instrument used to cut very thin slices of material, typically for microscopic examination.

Memory Tip

Think of 'small' ('micro-') and 'cutting' ('tome') to remember that a microtome is a tool for making very thin cuts.

Visually Confused Words