Origin: Greek suffix -phone
Microphone has 3 different meanings across 1 category:
device for converting sound waves into electrical energy
"The singer held her microphone close to capture every nuance of her voice as it was converted into electrical signals for the broadcast."
A device (transducer) used to convert sound waves into a varying electric current; normally fed into an amplifier and either recorded or broadcast.
"The singer held the microphone close to her mouth so that her voice could be converted into an electric signal for the live broadcast."
In plain English: A microphone is an electronic device that turns your voice into sound waves so you can record it or broadcast it to others.
"He adjusted his microphone before stepping onto the stage to give his speech."
Usage: A microphone is the handheld or stand-mounted device you speak into, distinct from speakers which output sound. You can also use it as a verb to describe placing these devices at specific locations for recording purposes.
To put one or more microphones on or in.
"The technician equipped the singer with a headset microphone before she began her performance."
In plain English: To use a microphone to record your voice is to speak into it so others can hear you through speakers or on recordings.
"The judge microphoned her every word to ensure everyone in court heard clearly."
The word microphone combines the Greek prefix micro- meaning small with -phone from phonein to sound. It was first used to describe a device that converts sound waves into electrical signals by capturing very faint noises.