Definition

A tool used to cut very thin slices of materials, especially for examining them under an electron microscope.

Example

The scientist used an ultramicrotome to prepare samples for detailed analysis.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an ultramicrotome?

Yeah, isn’t that the tool used for cutting super thin samples?

Exactly! It's essential for preparing materials for electron microscopy.

I can see how that would be really important for detailed analysis.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ultramicrotome is formed from "ultra-" (meaning beyond) and "micro-" (meaning small) and "tome" (from Greek "tomos", meaning to cut). The word refers to a device that cuts specimens into extremely thin slices, going beyond the usual small size.

Memory Tip

Think of 'beyond' ('ultra-') and 'small' ('micro-') to remember that an ultramicrotome is a tool that cuts things into very thin slices, even smaller than usual.

Visually Confused Words