megaphone
/'megəfoun/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A portable, cone-shaped device, typically held to the mouth, that amplifies and directs the sound of a person's voice over a distance.
Usage
The word "megaphone" is used to refer to the physical acoustic device. It is most commonly associated with situations where one person needs to address a large crowd or be heard over noise, such as at protests, sporting events, or by coaches and lifeguards.
Examples
- The protest leader used a megaphone to address the crowd.
- The coach shouted instructions through a megaphone.
- Without a megaphone, her voice was lost in the stadium.
Advanced Usage
- "To megaphone" (verb, less common): To use a megaphone; to amplify or broadcast information loudly and publicly.
- Example: The announcement was megaphoned across the camp.
- Figurative Use: Used to describe a person or entity that amplifies a message, opinion, or information to a wide audience.
- Example: The popular blog acted as a megaphone for the new political movement.
Variants and Related Words
- Bullhorn: A common synonym, often used interchangeably with "megaphone," especially for electric versions.
- Loudhailer: Another synonym, more common in British English.
Synonyms
Bullhorn, loudhailer.
Related Phrases
- To take/have the megaphone: To assume the role of the primary speaker or the one broadcasting the message.
- Example: During the rally, she took the megaphone to share her story.
Noun
- a cone-shaped acoustic device held to the mouth to intensify and direct the human voice