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The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 (gcide)

microphone \mi"cro*phone\ (m[imac]"kr[-o]*f[=o]n), n. [Micro-
Gr. fwnh` sound, voice: cf. F. microphone.] (Physics)
An instrument for converting sounds into electrical signals,
for the purpose of recording or amplifying the sounds. It
produces its effects in various ways, as for example by the
changes of intensity in an electric current, occasioned by
the variations in the contact resistance of conducting
bodies, especially of imperfect conductors, under the action
of acoustic vibrations. Other forms of microphone may use
changes in capacitance or other phenomena to transduce the
sounds into electrical signals.

Note: The electrical signals produced in a microphone may be
transmitted to recording or amplifying equipment
through a conducting wire, or by transmission as radio
waves. The latter method is popular for use in small
mobile microphones used by performers in plays and
other entertainment events, at public meetings, and by
broadcast personnel.
[1913 Webster PJC]