mike

mike · noun/verb

imported

Definitions

noun/verb

  1. 1.

    A microphone (informal).

  2. 2.

    To supply or equip with a microphone.

  3. 3.

    The letter M in the NATO phonetic alphabet.

Forms

plural: mikes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mike up — to attach a microphone to someone
  • •
    hot mike — a microphone that is on (often unexpectedly)
  • •
    open mike/mic — a session where anyone can perform
  • •
    mike check — testing a microphone before use
  • •
    drop the mike — to make a decisive final statement

Related words

See also: audio, broadcast, microphone, speaker
Synonyms: mic, microphone

Etymology

Shortened form of microphone, which comes from Greek mikros ("small") + phōnē ("sound, voice"). The informal abbreviation "mike" became common in the mid-20th century with the rise of broadcasting technology. The spelling "mic" is also widely used.