Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

-scope

-scope ({not transcribed})

[Greek skopo`s a watcher, spy. See Scope.]

A combining form usually signifying an instrument for viewing (with the eye) or observing (in any way); as in microscope, telescope, altoscope, anemoscope.

Scope , noun

[Italian scopo, Latin scopos a mark, aim, Greek skopo`s, a watcher, mark, aim; akin to {not transcribed}, {not transcribed} to view, and perh. to English spy. Compare Skeptic, Bishop.]

1.
That at which one aims; the thing or end to which the mind directs its view; that which is purposed to be reached or accomplished; hence, ultimate design, aim, or purpose; intention; drift; object.
Shooting wide, do miss the marked scope. — Spenser
Your scope is as mine own, So to enforce or qualify the laws As to your soul seems good. — Shakespeare
The scope of all their pleading against man's authority, is to overthrow such laws and constitutions in the church. — Hooker
2.
Room or opportunity for free outlook or aim; space for action; amplitude of opportunity; free course or vent; liberty; range of view, intent, or action.
Give him line and scope. — Shakespeare
In the fate and fortunes of the human race, scope is given to the operation of laws which man must always fail to discern the reasons of. — I. Taylor
Excuse me if I have given too much scope to the reflections which have arisen in my mind. — Burke
An intellectual cultivation of no moderate depth or scope. — Hawthorne
3.
Extended area. [Obsolete]
The scopes of land granted to the first adventurers. — Sir J. Davies
4.
Length; extent; sweep; as, scope of cable.
To look at for the purpose of evaluation; usually with out; as, to scope out the area as a camping site.