1. a scientific instrument used to cut extremely thin slices of material for examination under a microscope
Usage: scientific; laboratory equipment

Examples

• The lab technician used a microtome to prepare tissue samples for microscopic analysis.
• Modern microtomes can cut sections as thin as one micrometer.
• The pathologist adjusted the microtome to obtain uniform slices of the biopsy specimen.
• Students learned to operate the microtome safely during their histology course.
• The microtome’s sharp blade must be replaced regularly to ensure clean cuts.
• Researchers used a cryostat microtome to section frozen tissue samples.