microtomic

microtomic

A scientist prepares a microtomic section of plant tissue.

Definition

Adjective - Relating to microtomy or a microtome: "microtomic" describes anything pertaining to the use of a microtome (an instrument for cutting extremely thin slices of tissue for microscopic examination) or to the process of microtomy (the technique of preparing such thin sections).

Usage Examples
  • (A blade used in a microtome for cutting very thin slices.)
  • (Techniques related to cutting thin sections for microscopy.)
  • (The degree of accuracy in cutting thin sections.)
Advanced Usage
  • "microtomic section": a very thin slice of tissue prepared using a microtome.

    • The pathologist examined the microtomic section under the electron microscope. (A thin slice of tissue cut with a microtome.)
  • "microtomic artifact": an unwanted distortion or defect introduced during the cutting process.

    • Cracks in the sample were identified as microtomic artifacts. (Flaws caused by the microtome cutting process.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Microtome (n): the instrument used to cut thin sections.

    • The technician adjusted the microtome for a thinner cut. (The cutting device.)
  • Microtomy (n): the process or technique of cutting thin sections.

    • Advanced microtomy allows for samples as thin as a few micrometers. (The technique of sectioning.)
  • Microtomist (n): a person skilled in microtomy.

    • The microtomist prepared hundreds of slides for the study. (A specialist in cutting thin sections.)
Synonyms
  • Sectioning: the act of cutting into thin slices (often used broadly).
  • Histological slicing: slicing related to the study of tissues (histology).
Related Idioms
  • Cut to the thin: a colloquial expression meaning to reduce something to its essential or smallest form (not directly related, but conceptually similar to microtomic precision).
    • The editor cut the manuscript to the thin, removing all unnecessary details. (Reduced to a minimal state.)
Note on Usage

"Microtomic" is a highly specialized technical term used primarily in histology, pathology, and materials science. It is rarely encountered outside academic or laboratory contexts.