mic
UK[maɪk]US[maɪk]
n
A microphone.
Etymology
The term "mic" is a modern, informal abbreviation of "microphone," which entered English in the late 19th century. "Microphone" itself is a compound from Greek roots: "mikros" (small) and "phōnē" (sound, voice), literally meaning "small sound" or "instrument for making small sounds loud." The clipped form "mic" emerged in the 20th century, particularly in broadcasting and music contexts, as a convenient and colloquial shorthand. Its adoption reflects a common linguistic process where frequently used technical terms are shortened for ease of communication.
Analysis
The word "mic" is a clipped form (shortening) of the word "microphone". It is not composed of multiple morphemes in its own right.
Examples
Please speak directly into the mic.
He tapped the mic to check if it was on.
I need to set up an extra mic for the panel discussion.