microwave
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈmaɪkroʊweɪv/
KK: /ˈmaɪkroʊweɪv/
noun
Definition
A kitchen appliance that uses electromagnetic waves to heat and cook food quickly.
Example
I used the microwave to heat up my leftovers for lunch.
Conversation
Hey, do you think the microwave is still working?
I hope so! I need to heat up my leftovers.
I just used it yesterday, so it should be fine.
Great! I really love how quick the microwave is for meals.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
oven
radiowave
wave
Antonyms
cold
freeze
chill
transitive verb
Definition
To cook or heat food using a microwave oven.
Example
I will microwave the leftovers for dinner.
Tense Forms
Past: microwaved
Past Participle: microwaved
Conversation
Hey, can you help me microwave this leftover pasta?
Sure! How long do you usually heat it for?
I usually do about two minutes, but I'm not sure this time.
Root Explanation
Microwave is formed from "micro-" (meaning small) and "wave" (from Old English "wafian", meaning to wave or move). The word describes a small wave, specifically referring to the electromagnetic waves used in microwave ovens.
Memory Tip
Think of 'small' ('micro-') waves ('wave') that are used to heat food quickly.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.