periscope

noun

peri·​scope ˈper-ə-ˌskōp How to pronounce periscope (audio)
: a tubular optical instrument containing lenses and mirrors by which an observer obtains an otherwise obstructed field of view

Illustration of periscope

Illustration of periscope

Examples of periscope in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Its periscope shape seems, fittingly, to stare out to the future. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Apr. 2026 The front windshield has a border that narrows your field of view, like looking through a submarine periscope, and takes some time to get used to. — Jesus R. Garcia, Houston Chronicle, 15 Mar. 2026 But the snakes also cause amusing distractions, as when python Fizzy periscopes up to get a better view of the class, and the class stops to observe him. — Deena Prichep, NPR, 11 Mar. 2026 Gray ships were easily seen in profile against the sky and horizon by U-boat periscopes—was there a better color to paint them to help camouflage them from attack? — Literary Hub, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for periscope

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of periscope was in 1879

Rhymes for periscope

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Browse Nearby Words

periscii
periscope
periscopic
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Cite this Entry

“Periscope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periscope. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

periscope

noun
peri·​scope ˈper-ə-ˌskōp How to pronounce periscope (audio)
: an instrument containing lenses and mirrors by which an observer (as on a submerged submarine) can get a view that would otherwise be blocked
periscopic
ˌper-ə-ˈskäp-ik
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on periscope

Nglish: Translation of periscope for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about periscope

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