magnifier

Everyday

1. A magnifier is a tool, usually a lens, that makes things look bigger than they are. tree →
2. On a computer, a magnifier is a program that makes part of the screen bigger. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons pupils use a magnifier (magnifying glass, hand lens) to look at insects, leaves and soil. In safety, a magnifier can focus sunlight and start a fire, so never point it at the sun or at people.

Examples

• Look at the ant through the magnifier. tree →
• Grandma uses a magnifier to read small print. tree →
• The magnifier made the leaf's veins easy to see. tree →
• Never use a magnifier to look at the sun. tree →
• The detective picked up his magnifier. tree →
• Turn on the screen magnifier to see the text better. tree →

Note

Countable. Also called a magnifying glass or hand lens. Verb: magnify (magnified). A magnifier makes things look bigger; it does not make them really bigger.