microwave

[mahy-kroh-weyv]

noun

1. an electromagnetic wave of extremely high frequency, 1 GH 3 or more, and having wavelengths of from 1 millimeter to 30 centimeters.

2. microwave oven.

verb (used without object)

microwaved, microwaving 

1. to use a microwave oven.

verb (used with object)

microwaved, microwaving 

1. to cook, defrost, or otherwise prepare in a microwave oven.

microwave

/ ˈmaɪkrəʊˌweɪv /

noun

1. 1. electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range 0.3 to 0.001 metres: used in radar, cooking, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      microwave generator

2. short for microwave oven

verb

1. to cook in a microwave oven

microwave

1. An electromagnetic wave with a frequency in the range of 100 megahertz to 30 gigahertz (lower than infrared but higher than other radio waves). Microwaves are used in radar, radio transmission, cooking, and other applications. Microwaves are generated naturally by many astronomical phenomena and are found in cosmic background radiation.

2. See more at electromagnetic spectrum

Other Word Forms

• microwaveable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of microwave¹

First recorded in 1930–35; micro- + wave

Example Sentences

For people who really need a hot meal, the office microwave just doesn’t cut it — no one wants their pho coming out smelling like popcorn and old pasta sauce.

From Salon

From the outside, the building is modest, but inside, the recently renovated lobby is bright and welcoming, with plenty of seating and a communal microwave that’s surprisingly handy.

From Salon

Like the bodegas of New York, they have become part of the fabric of contemporary urban life, multifunctional spaces that can be restaurants or coffee shops or bars with microwaves and outdoor seating.

From Los Angeles Times

Batch cooking and using an air fryer or microwave rather than heating up the oven for a small item can save energy.

From BBC

The burrito can be warmed up in the microwave or a conventional oven or a skillet before packing.

From Salon

Related Words

• bake 
• zap