The spelling of the term "hand mike" can be traced through its phonetic representation as /hænd maɪk/. "Hand" is spelled with an "h" for the aspiration of the [h] sound and "a" which sounds like the phoneme [æ]. "Mike" is represented by the letters "m-i-k-e" and pronounced with the French-like [aɪ] diphthong. The term is shortened from the original term "hand-held microphone" and refers to a microphone that can be held in the hand while speaking or singing.
A hand mike, also known as a handheld microphone or hand-held mic, is a device commonly used in various fields to amplify and capture sound. It is designed to be held in the hand, allowing the user to speak or perform into it while maintaining mobility.
Typically consisting of a cylindrical body with a built-in microphone element, a hand mike is operated by simply holding it in the hand and speaking directly into it. The microphone element inside the device converts sound waves into electrical signals, which are then transmitted through a cable or wirelessly to an amplifier or sound system. The external casing of the hand mike provides protection for the microphone element and houses any necessary controls for adjusting volume, frequency response, or other audio settings.
Used in a wide range of applications such as public speaking, singing, broadcasting, live performances, and recording studios, hand mikes offer convenience, ease of use, and versatility. They are highly portable and allow the user to move freely while using them, making them suitable for performing on stage, conducting interviews, or addressing a crowd. Hand mikes are often equipped with features such as noise-cancellation, on/off switches, and adjustable gain to optimize sound quality and minimize unwanted background noise.
In summary, a hand mike is a handheld microphone designed for capturing and amplifying sound. Its compact and portable design, ease of use, and versatility make it a popular choice in various professional, entertainment, and communication settings.
The term "hand mike" is an abbreviation of "hand microphone". The word "microphone" comes from the Greek roots "micro" meaning "small" and "phone" meaning "sound" or "voice". It was coined in the late 19th century and referred to a device used to convert sound waves into electrical signals for amplification or recording.
The addition of "hand" in "hand microphone" simply denotes that it is a microphone designed to be held in the hand while in use, as opposed to other types of microphones that may be mounted or used in different ways. It is a descriptive term used to specify the design or usage of a particular type of microphone.