microphone: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral (common in both technical and general contexts)
Quick answer
What does “microphone” mean?
An instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy variations, which may then be amplified, transmitted, or recorded.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy variations, which may then be amplified, transmitted, or recorded.
Any device or technology used to capture or amplify sound; by extension, a symbol of public speaking, broadcasting, or being heard.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The abbreviation: 'mike' is traditionally British, 'mic' is dominant American. The verb form 'to mike (up)' is more common in UK English; 'to mic (up)' is standard in US English.
Connotations
None significant.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties; the full form 'microphone' is standard in formal writing.
Grammar
How to Use “microphone” in a Sentence
N + V: The microphone picks up...V + N: to use/plug in/set up a microphoneADJ + N: a live/sensitive/hidden microphoneVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “microphone” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to mike up the panel before the show.
- The presenter was miked for the outdoor segment.
American English
- They'll mic the actors with tiny lavaliers.
- Make sure you mic the drum kit properly.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
American English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The microphone feed was cutting out.
- We have a microphone issue in hall three.
American English
- Check the microphone cable connection.
- His microphone technique is excellent.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Essential for presentations, conferences, and video calls (e.g., 'Please ensure your microphone is muted').
Academic
Used in lectures, recordings, and research involving audio data (e.g., 'The interview was recorded using a directional microphone').
Everyday
Common for karaoke, smartphone voice memos, online gaming, and home recording (e.g., 'She sang into the microphone at the party').
Technical
A key component in audio engineering, broadcasting, and acoustics, with specifications like frequency response and polar pattern.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “microphone”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “microphone”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “microphone”
- Incorrect plural: 'microphones' (not 'microphonen'). Confusing 'microphone' with 'megaphone' (which amplifies sound outwardly). Misspelling: 'micorphone', 'microfone'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially in US English (e.g., 'to mic a guitar'). In UK English, 'to mike up' is also common.
A microphone converts sound into an electrical signal (input). A loudspeaker converts an electrical signal back into sound (output).
It's an idiomatic expression meaning to do something so decisive or impressive that it effectively ends the discussion, originating from the act of dropping a microphone after a great performance.
Metaphorically, yes. It can represent a means of having one's voice heard, e.g., 'Social media gave her a microphone to share her ideas.'
An instrument for converting sound waves into electrical energy variations, which may then be amplified, transmitted, or recorded.
Microphone is usually neutral (common in both technical and general contexts) in register.
Microphone: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.krə.fəʊn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪ.krə.foʊn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “drop the mic/mike (to perform a conclusive or impressive act)”
- “be on/off mic (to be audible/inaudible to an audience)”
- “hot mic (a live, broadcasting microphone)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: MICRO (small) + PHONE (sound). A device for making small sounds bigger.
Conceptual Metaphor
A VOICE IS A TOOL (e.g., 'He has a powerful microphone on social media').
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common American English abbreviation for 'microphone'?