microphone

[ mahy-kruh-fohn ]

noun

1. an instrument capable of transforming sound waves into changes in electric currents or voltage, used in recording or transmitting sound.

microphone

/ ˈmaɪkrəˌfəʊn /

noun

1. a device used in sound-reproduction systems for converting sound into electrical energy, usually by means of a ribbon or diaphragm set into motion by the sound waves. The vibrations are converted into the equivalent audio-frequency electric currents Informal namemike See also carbon microphone Compare loudspeaker

Word History and Origins

Origin of microphone¹

1875–80; micro-, in sense “enlarging” (extracted from microscope ) + -phone

Example Sentences

I want to go full circle with "Sex and the City" because now you've had this microphone drop role last season on "And Just Like That…"

From Salon

On the other hand, AR smart glasses display information on a small screen within the lenses and are equipped with cameras and microphones for hands-free data collection.

From Science Daily

“But we kept an open conversation. I learned a lot from her, like when they’re doing microphones, people would come up to her and grab her chair. It’s like, ‘That’s my body.

From Los Angeles Times

They affixed six small microphones across the headband.

From Science Daily

Tyson has not fought as a professional in 19 years and appeared disinterested as Paul dominated the microphone.

From BBC

Related Words

• mic
• mike