macroscopic

[ mak-ruh-skop-ik ]

adjective

1. visible to the naked eye. Compare microscopic ( def 1 ).
2. pertaining to large units; comprehensive.

macroscopic

/ ˌməkrəʊˈskɒpɪk /

adjective

1. large enough to be visible to the naked eye Compare microscopic
2. comprehensive; concerned with large units
3. physics capable of being described by the statistical properties of a large number of parts

Derived Forms

• ˌmacroˈscopically, adverb

Other Words From

• macro·scopi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of macroscopic¹

First recorded in 1870–75; macro- + -scope + -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of macroscopic¹

C19: see macro- , -scopic

Example Sentences

Researchers from the University of Rochester have uncovered compelling evidence that Earth's magnetic field was in a highly unusual state when the macroscopic animals of the Ediacaran Period diversified and thrived.

From Science Daily

This uniquely quantum phenomenon cannot be explained by the laws of classical physics, yet it is one of the properties that explains the macroscopic behavior of quantum systems.

From Science Daily

However, on a nanoscopic scale, materials are not homogeneous anymore and the macroscopic description of the material is insufficient.

From Science Daily

It requires the use of macroscopic voltage measurement, which looks at the overall voltage changes across a material.

From Science Daily

Being able to control the macroscopic twist between layers allows for more control over the properties of the entire system.

From Science Daily