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microphonic

microphonic

9.9
A device that turns sound into an electrical signal
  • noun
  • /maɪˈkrɒfɪk/
  • Archaic
translation icon : micrófono
  • The scientist demonstrated how the microphonic could pick up even the faintest sounds.

Examples

  • In early radio broadcasts, a microphonic was essential for capturing live performances.

  • The musician used a microphonic to amplify his voice during the concert.

  • Collectors sometimes find a vintage microphonic among old audio equipment.

  • The microphonic device captured every whisper in the room.

  • Can you hear the microphonic feedback from the speakers?

  • At the vintage store, I found an old microphonic that still works perfectly.

  • During the presentation, the microphonic allowed the audience to hear every detail clearly.

Synonyms

microphone
vsmicrophonic
238 1.7

A device that changes sound into an electric signal for recording or amplification

is an older or rare term for this device
mic
vsmicrophonic
  • Informal
194 3.5

A small object that changes sound into electricity for recording or making sound louder

is an older or rare term rather than the modern short label
mike
vsmicrophonic
  • Informal
19 5.2

A small device people speak into so others can hear

is an older or rare term rather than this casual spoken name
dynamic microphone
vsmicrophonic
  • Specialized
3.6

A microphone that uses a small magnet and wire to change sound into electric signals

is an older or rare term for that device type rather than technical category
crystal microphone
vsmicrophonic
  • Archaic
6.2

A device for recording or sending voices that uses a small crystal to change sound into an electrical signal

is an older or rare term for that specific technical design rather than name

Surface Forms

microphonic singular
microphonics plural

Morphology

microphonic = microphone (opaque) = micro + phon + ic

The form is morphologically analyzable, but the noun sense is an archaic lexicalization rather than a fully predictable meaning from micro- + phon + -ic.

Etymology

A microphonic was an early name for a microphone, built from micro- 'small' and phone 'sound', as in telephone. That is why a microphonic is a device for picking up very faint sounds and turning them into an electrical signal.