microtome: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “microtome” mean?
A precision instrument used in laboratories to cut extremely thin slices of biological tissue for microscopic examination.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A precision instrument used in laboratories to cut extremely thin slices of biological tissue for microscopic examination.
While strictly a laboratory tool, the term can be used metaphorically in academic or literary contexts to describe any process of meticulous, fine-scale division or analysis.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Purely technical in both variants. No cultural connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialised in both dialects, confined to histology, pathology, and related life science fields.
Grammar
How to Use “microtome” in a Sentence
The [technician] used a microtome to section the [tissue type].The [tissue type] was cut on a microtome.[Sections/ Slides] were prepared using a microtome.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “microtome” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The wax-embedded sample was carefully microtomed at 5 micrometres.
- We need to microtome these frozen sections for the immunofluorescence assay.
American English
- The paraffin block was microtomed to produce ribbons of tissue.
- After fixing, the specimen is dehydrated, embedded, and then microtomed.
adverb
British English
- [Not standard. Use 'using a microtome' or 'microtomically' (rare).]
American English
- [Not standard. Use 'with a microtome' or 'microtomically' (rare).]
adjective
British English
- The microtome knife requires honing before the run.
- Ensure the microtome stage is clean and secure.
American English
- The microtome blade was replaced for a sharper cut.
- Follow the microtome safety protocols at all times.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used. Potential in very specific medical device manufacturing or lab supply sales.
Academic
Core term in biological, medical, and materials science research papers and lab protocols.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would only be used by a professional explaining their work.
Technical
Primary context. Essential vocabulary for histologists, pathologists, and researchers preparing samples for microscopy.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “microtome”
- Pronouncing it as 'micro-tomb'.
- Using 'microtome' as a verb (the verb is 'to section' or 'to cut').
- Confusing it with 'microscope'.
- Misspelling as 'microtone'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A microtome prepares the thin slices (sections) of a sample. A microscope is then used to view those slices.
They are typically very thin slices (2-10 micrometres thick) of biological tissue embedded in wax or resin, or frozen.
It is highly unlikely. Microtomes are expensive, precision laboratory instruments requiring specialised training for safe and effective use.
An ultramicrotome is an even more precise type of microtome used to cut ultra-thin sections (nanometres thick) for electron microscopy, whereas standard microtomes are for light microscopy.
A precision instrument used in laboratories to cut extremely thin slices of biological tissue for microscopic examination.
Microtome is usually technical / scientific in register.
Microtome: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.krəˌtəʊm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.krəˌtoʊm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None. Too technical for idiomatic use.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MICROscope' needs 'micro-TOME' (like a book of thin slices) to see details.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MICROTOME IS A PRECISION GUILLOTINE for cells, creating knowledge from slices.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a microtome?