microphone

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.".

“Microphone” is pronounced MEYE-kruh-fohn (/ˈmaɪ.kɹəˌfoʊn/ in IPA).

Here is “microphone” used in a sentence: “The singer adjusted the microphone before starting the song.”

“Microphone” is a noun.

The word “microphone” comes from Greek. Built from Greek mikros ("small") and phone ("sound" or "voice") — literally "small sound" or "sound amplifier.".

“Microphone” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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.

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.

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.