spectroscopically
|spec-tro-scop-i-cal-ly|
🇺🇸
/ˌspɛktrəˈskɑːpɪk/
🇬🇧
/ˌspɛktrəˈskɒpɪk/
(spectroscopic)
observed/analysed by spectrum
Etymology
'spectroscopically' originates from English, specifically from the adjective 'spectroscopic' combined with the adverbial suffix '-ally'. The adjective 'spectroscopic' ultimately derives from Latin 'spectrum' (meaning 'appearance') and Greek 'skopein' (to look), which contributed to the formation of the modern term.
'spectroscopically' evolved from the adjective 'spectroscopic' (English), which in turn came from the noun 'spectroscopy' (a 19th-century scientific coinage). 'Spectroscopy' was formed from Latin 'spectrum' ('appearance') and Greek elements related to 'viewing' or 'observing' ('skopein'), and the adjective and adverb were derived later in English.
Initially connected with 'appearance' or 'seeing' (from 'spectrum'/'to look'), the sense narrowed over time to refer specifically to the scientific analysis of spectra; 'spectroscopically' now means 'by means of spectroscopy'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the scientific study or technique of observing and analyzing spectra produced when matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation.
Advances in spectroscopy have improved our ability to detect trace elements.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
adjective form of the base; relating to or using spectroscopy (i.e., concerned with the analysis of spectra).
Spectroscopic measurements revealed the sample's composition.
Synonyms
Adverb 1
in a manner that relates to or is performed by spectroscopy; by means of spectral analysis.
The compound was identified spectroscopically.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/23 14:49