open mic

American  

[oh-puhn mahyk] / ˈoʊ pən ˈmaɪk /

Or open mike

noun

1. a live show in a club, bar, etc., in which anyone may perform but each performer is given a time limit (often used attributively).

   an open mic night for stand-up comedians.

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Etymology

Origin of open mic

First recorded in 1975–80; open ( def. ) (in sense “in operation, live”) + mic ( def. )

Example Sentences

We would go to open mic nights, and we would go to restaurant week and see how the rich people in Manhattan were living.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

It feels like an open mic night in the Upside Down — and yes, everyone is wearing all black.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

Aitch was discovered as a youngster by local entrepreneur Michael Adex, founder of the talent management company NQ, while spitting bars at a local open mic night.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Protest is a crucial slice of life in the young democracy, and it knows how to turn it into a party - packed with songs, chants, dancing and open mic sessions.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

“An open mic at Busboys and Poets...it’s a bookstore that’s really close to here, if you want to check it out.”

From "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi