German word

Lupe

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈluːpə/

Meaning

  • feminine nounmagnifying glass

Example

Kannst du mir die Lupe geben?

Could you pass me the magnifying glass?

Illustration for Lupe (magnifying glass)

More examples

Wir sollten den Vertrag unter die Lupe nehmen.

We should scrutinize the contract.

Core concept

A handheld round lens brings hidden detail into clear view by enlarging a small area.

Common phrases

  • unter die Lupe nehmen

    scrutinize ___

  • mit der Lupe betrachten

    examine ___ with a magnifying glass

  • Lupe benutzen

    use a magnifying glass

Similar words

Vergrößerungsglas: A glass or lens device that enlarges objects or writing for closer viewing.
Mikroskop: An optical device for observing details too small to see with the naked eye.
Brille: A pair of lenses worn before the eyes to sharpen near or distant vision.

Definition in German

Lupe ist ein rundes Vergrößerungsglas, das man mit der Hand vor einen Gegenstand hält, um feine Strukturen oder kleine Schrift größer zu sehen.

Word origin

The German noun Lupe was adopted from French loupe, which denotes a magnifying lens or glass.

Usage tips

  • The fixed expression etwas unter die Lupe nehmen means to examine or scrutinize something closely.

Related words

  • lupenreinflawlessadjective
  • Lupenbrillemagnifying spectaclesnoun

Word lists with this word