tomography

noun

to·​mog·​ra·​phy tō-ˈmä-grə-fē How to pronounce tomography (audio)
: a method of producing a three-dimensional image of the internal structures of a solid object (such as the human body or the earth) by the observation and recording of the differences in the effects on the passage of waves of energy impinging on those structures compare computed tomography
tomographic
ˌtō-mə-ˈgra-fik How to pronounce tomography (audio)
adjective

Examples of tomography in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Learning the exact state requires quantum tomography, a process that consumes an enormous number of copies and significant energy just to perform measurements. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 19 Apr. 2026 The team used grinding tomography, a 3D imaging technique, along with an artificial intelligence model, to carry out the research. — Adam England, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026 The study authors found the specimens by using a 3D-imaging technique called grinding tomography to create high-resolution datasets, and an AI model, according to the study. — Jack Guy, CNN Money, 23 Apr. 2026 Other possible diagnostic tests include urinalysis, and X-ray or computerized tomography (CT) scan of the chest. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 5 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for tomography

Word History

Etymology

Greek tomos section + International Scientific Vocabulary -graphy — more at tome

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tomography was in 1935

Phrases Containing tomography

Rhymes for tomography

See All Rhymes for tomography

Browse Nearby Words

tomogram
tomography
tomophobia
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Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

tomography

noun
to·​mog·​ra·​phy tō-ˈmäg-rə-fē How to pronounce tomography (audio)
plural tomographies
: a method of producing a three-dimensional image of the internal structures of a solid object (as the human body) by the observation and recording of the differences in the effects on the passage of waves of energy impinging on those structures

called also stratigraphy

see computed tomography, positron-emission tomography
tomographic
ˌtō-mə-ˈgraf-ik How to pronounce tomography (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on tomography

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tomography

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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