mic: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal, technical (audio/performance contexts)
Quick answer
What does “mic” mean?
a short, informal form of 'microphone', a device that converts sound into an electrical signal.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
a short, informal form of 'microphone', a device that converts sound into an electrical signal.
As a verb: to set up, use, or speak into a microphone (often 'mic up'). Informally, can refer to the general concept of sound amplification or recording equipment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is identical. The verb use ('to mic') is slightly more established in American English, especially in entertainment industries. British English may still show a slight preference for the full form 'microphone' in formal writing.
Connotations
In both varieties, 'mic' implies a practical, hands-on, or technical context. It lacks the formality of 'microphone'.
Frequency
High frequency in both varieties within music, broadcasting, theatre, and tech circles. Less common in general formal prose.
Grammar
How to Use “mic” in a Sentence
mic (something/someone) upspeak into the michold the mictap the micadjust the micVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mic” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The sound engineer will mic the panelists before the debate.
- They forgot to mic the cello for the recording session.
American English
- We need to mic up the quarterback for the sideline interviews.
- She expertly mic'd the acoustic guitar for a warm sound.
adverb
British English
- (Not standard; no common adverbial use.)
American English
- (Not standard; no common adverbial use.)
adjective
British English
- The mic input on the mixer is faulty.
- He has great mic technique when presenting.
American English
- Grab another mic cable from the storage box.
- Her mic check revealed some feedback issues.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In event management or AV procurement: 'We need to budget for ten wireless mics.'
Academic
Rare in formal papers, but appears in media studies or performance research: 'The performer's relationship with the mic was analysed.'
Everyday
Casual talk about tech or events: 'Can you pass me the mic? Your podcast mic sounds great.'
Technical
Standard term in audio engineering, broadcasting, and stage tech specs: 'Route the signal from the vocal mic to channel one.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mic”
- Misspelling as 'mike' in contemporary technical writing (though acceptable informally).
- Incorrect verb conjugation: 'He miced the guitar' is less standard than 'He mic'd the guitar.'
- Using 'mic' in highly formal documents where 'microphone' is preferred.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a standard, widely accepted short form of 'microphone', especially in technical and industry contexts. Dictionaries list it.
There's variation. 'Mic'd' (often with an apostrophe) is very common in professional audio writing to avoid the awkward 'miced'. 'Miked' is also used. Consistency within a document is key.
'Mic' aligns with the abbreviation 'mic.' and is now the dominant spelling in technical specs and journalism. 'Mike' is an older informal spelling, less common in contemporary professional use.
Yes, especially in entertainment and AV (audio-visual) contexts. It means to fit or equip with a microphone (e.g., 'We need to mic the actors').
a short, informal form of 'microphone', a device that converts sound into an electrical signal.
Mic is usually informal, technical (audio/performance contexts) in register.
Mic: in British English it is pronounced /mʌɪk/, and in American English it is pronounced /maɪk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “drop the mic/mic drop”
- “hot mic”
- “live mic”
- “open mic”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a **MIC**rophone being too long to say on stage, so you clip it to **MIC**.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MIC IS A TOOL FOR PROJECTION/EXTENSION (of the voice, presence, or influence).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'mic' LEAST appropriate?