microphone
3 synonyms for microphone, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A device that converts sound into an electrical signal, used for recording, amplifying, or broadcasting audio.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use microphone
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
speak into the microphone
a wireless microphone
Etymology
Built from Greek mikros ("small") and phone ("sound" or "voice") — literally "small sound" or "sound amplifier."
Full origin of microphone →Frequently asked questions
What does “microphone” mean?
The word “microphone” means a device that converts sound into an electrical signal, used for recording, amplifying, or broadcasting audio. In plain terms, a device that picks up sound and turns it into an electrical signal, commonly shortened to "mic" or "mike.".
How do you pronounce “microphone”?
“Microphone” is pronounced MEYE-kruh-fohn (/ˈmaɪ.kɹəˌfoʊn/ in IPA).
How do you use “microphone” in a sentence?
Here is “microphone” used in a sentence: “The singer adjusted the microphone before starting the song.”
What part of speech is “microphone”?
“Microphone” is a noun.
Where does the word “microphone” come from?
The word “microphone” comes from Greek. Built from Greek mikros ("small") and phone ("sound" or "voice") — literally "small sound" or "sound amplifier.".
Is “microphone” a common word?
“Microphone” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a microphone and a speaker?
A microphone converts sound into an electrical signal, capturing audio for recording, amplification, or broadcasting, while a speaker does the reverse by converting an electrical signal back into sound. They perform opposite functions in an audio system.
What are microphones commonly used for?
Microphones are used for recording audio in music and film, amplifying speech at live events, and broadcasting sound in radio, television, and online streaming. Their core function is always the same: turning sound waves into an electrical signal that can be processed or transmitted.
What is the difference between a microphone and a mic?
There is no difference in meaning; mic is simply an informal, shortened way of writing or saying microphone. Microphone is used in formal or technical contexts, while mic is more common in casual speech.
