Meaning & Definition of word "Oscilloscope"

Oscilloscope

/əˈsɪləˌskoʊp/

noun:

  • 1. An electronic instrument used to display and analyze the waveform of electronic signals.
    • Example: The engineer used the oscilloscope to measure the frequency of the signal.
  • 2. A device that visually represents varying signals as waveforms on a screen.
    • Example: By connecting the sensor to the oscilloscope, she could see the changes in voltage in real time.
  • 3. A crucial tool for diagnosing problems in electronic circuits.
    • Example: Without the oscilloscope, troubleshooting the circuit would have been significantly more difficult.
  • 4. An instrument that allows users to observe the characteristics of electrical signals.
    • Example: The students practiced using the oscilloscope to analyze the sound waves produced by different instruments.

Etymology

From the Latin 'oscillare' meaning 'to swing', and 'scope' from Greek 'skopein' meaning 'to look' or 'to view'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

scope out:

To examine or check something thoroughly.

scope creep:

The uncontrolled changes or continuous growth in a project's scope.

microscope:

An instrument used to see objects that are too small for the naked eye.

Related Words

voltage:

The electric potential difference between two points.

waveform:

The shape and form of a signal in a graphical representation.

signal:

An electric current or electromagnetic field used to convey data.

Slang Meanings of oscilloscope

Meaning: Scope

Example Sentence: Can you pass me the scope to check this waveform?

Meaning: Waveform wiz

Example Sentence: He's a real waveform wiz when it comes to using an oscilloscope.