microphone

American  

[mahy-kruh-fohn] / ˈmaɪ krəˌfoʊn /

noun

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

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microphone British  

/ ˈmaɪkrəˌfəʊn /

noun

1. Informal name: mike.  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 See also carbon microphone Compare loudspeaker

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Etymology

Origin of microphone

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

Example Sentences

Equipped with microphones and connected to WiFi, AI toys are pricier than traditional ones, are marketed as companions or educational products and can cost $100 or even double that.

From Los Angeles Times

In every case, someone is sitting in a room, in front of a camera and microphone, almost totally alone.

From Salon

It later emerged it was a mistake by the Snicko operator, who used the microphone at the bowlers' end used, rather than the strikers' end.

From BBC

The microphone was taken away from me after I'd finished my question.

From BBC

He lumbers over to his microphone and computer.

From The Wall Street Journal