Magnification

/ˌmæɡ.nɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The action or process of making something appear larger than it is, especially with a lens or microscope.
The magnification of the specimen helped scientists observe the cellular structure in detail.
The extent to which an object appears larger, often expressed as a ratio or multiple.
A magnification of 10x means that the object appears ten times larger than its actual size.
An increase in the apparent size of an object, often used in the context of optical devices.
The magnification provided by the telescope allowed astronomers to view distant galaxies clearly.
A measure of how much larger an object is made to appear through the use of optical instruments.
The researcher adjusted the magnification settings on the microscope for better clarity.
The process of exaggerating the importance or impact of something.
Media reports often involve a magnification of events to attract more viewers.

Etymology

From Latin magnificatio(n-), from magnificare 'to make great'

Common Phrases and Expressions

optical magnification
Enlargement of an image through lenses or optical instruments.
digital magnification
Enlargement of an image using digital technology.
magnification factor
The ratio of the size of the image to the size of the object.

Related Words

magnify
To make something appear larger than it is.
magnifier
An optical instrument for making objects appear larger.
magnificence
The quality of being magnificent or grand.

Slang Meanings

Seeing things in a larger context.
He likes to say he doesn’t just magnification the details, he sees the big picture.
To blow things out of proportion.
Stop magnifying the issue; it’s really not that big of a deal.