microwave - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
microwave Word Meanings
- a device that uses microwaves to cook food
- a type of electromagnetic wave
- to cook something using a microwave oven
microwave Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
microwave Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmaɪ.krəʊ.veɪ/
US
/ˈmaɪ.kroʊ.veɪ/
microwave Word Etymology
micro- = small, wave = wave; Latin origin through Greek to English. Imagine a tiny wave cooking your food quickly!
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
A microwave is a compact kitchen appliance that uses microwaves, a form of electromagnetic radiation, to heat and cook food quickly. It works by exciting water molecules in the food, which generates heat from within rather than heating the air around it. This makes heating faster than conventional ovens for many simple tasks, like reheating soup or defrosting meat. A microwave oven typically operates at around 2.45 gigahertz and comes in various wattages, usually between 600 and 1200 watts. The word microwave also refers to the type of wave itself. The verb to microwave means to cook or heat something using a microwave oven. Be cautious with metal objects and certain plastics, as they can cause sparks or melt.
Usage Reminders
- Use microwave for reheating or defrosting, not for browning or crisping.
- Check wattage and start with short times, then add more if needed.
- Always use microwave-safe containers; avoid metal.
- Stir or rotate food halfway to promote even heating.
- Let food stand a minute after heating to finish cooking.
Common Misconceptions
- Microwave radiation makes food radioactive.
- Microwaves heat food from the outside in.
- Metal containers are always safe in the microwave.
- All plastics are microwave-safe.
- Microwaving kills all bacteria and makes food completely safe.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice both noun and verb forms in everyday contexts.
- Learn common collocations: microwave oven, microwavable, microwave-safe.
- Distinguish wave meaning vs device meaning when reading tech articles.
- Watch for speed words: minutes vs seconds in microwave cooking.
- Check material safety labels before microwaving.
- Compare defrosting times across different wattages.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'microwave' refer to?
A.A kitchen appliance
B.A type of music
C.A type of bird
D.A piece of furniture
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'microwave' correctly?
A.She likes to read books in the microwave.
B.They listened to music on the microwave.
C.The cat chased the microwave around the house.
D.He turned on the microwave to cook popcorn.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'microwave'?
A.Stove
B.Oven
C.Refrigerator
D.Dishwasher
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite of 'microwave'?
A.Toaster
B.Freeze
C.Blender
D.Coffee maker
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use a microwave?
A.To bake cookies
B.To heat up food quickly
C.To wash clothes
D.To water the plants
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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