Micro Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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micro
[ˈmaɪkroʊ ]
Definitions
technology
A micro is a small piece of technology or equipment, often used as a component in a larger system. It can refer to microchips, microprocessors, microcontrollers, or any other miniature device.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| micro |
Used to describe objects or concepts that are extremely small, often at the microscopic level or in relation to technology. It is commonly used in scientific and technological contexts.
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| miniature |
Used when referring to a very small, scaled-down version of something larger. It often refers to models, replicas, or smaller versions of objects.
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| tiny |
Emphasizes the very small size of something, often used to give a sense of being almost minuscule or particularly cute. It can be used in various casual contexts.
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| small |
A general term used to describe something of little size, quantity, or extent. It is the most commonly used term and can be applied in a wide variety of contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Make sure to insert the micro into the correct slot on the circuit board.
- The micro in this device is responsible for processing the data quickly and efficiently.
biology
In biology, a micro is a unit of measurement equal to one millionth of a meter. It is commonly used to describe microscopic organisms or structures that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Synonyms
microscopic, minuscule, minute.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| micro |
Describing something very small, often in a technical or scientific context.
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| microscopic |
Describing something so small that it can only be seen with a microscope, often used in scientific or medical contexts.
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| minuscule |
Used for describing something extremely small in size or amount, often in a slightly informal context.
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| minute |
Describing something very small in detail or size, often in a formal or technical context.
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Examples of usage
- The scientist observed the microorganisms under a microscope.
- This microscope can magnify objects to see them at the micro level.
finance
A micro is a very small unit of currency, often used in developing countries where the currency has a low value. It can also refer to small financial transactions or investments.
Synonyms
fraction, modicum, small amount.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| micro |
Use 'micro' when talking about something extremely small, often at a microscopic or minute level. This is commonly used in scientific or technological contexts.
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| small amount |
Use 'small amount' in general contexts to describe a little quantity of something. This is a more neutral and versatile term.
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| fraction |
Use 'fraction' when referring to a part of a whole, often in mathematical or quantitative contexts, but it can also be used more generally to describe a small part of something.
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| modicum |
Use 'modicum' when referring to a small quantity, but often in a context where even a small amount is significant or desired.
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Examples of usage
- She donated a micro of money to help support the local community.
- The company specializes in microfinance, providing small loans to entrepreneurs.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Microorganisms are living things so tiny that millions of them can fit on the head of a pin.
- The field of microbiology studies these tiny organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Microscopes have enabled scientists to explore the micro world, unveiling complex structures in cells.
Technology
- Microprocessors, which are miniaturized computer chips, are crucial components in modern electronics.
- In the tech world, 'micro' often implies efficiency, as seen in microservices, which are small, independent services used in software development.
- The trend of miniaturization has led to 'micro' devices, such as smartphones, being packed with powerful capabilities in a small form.
Art
- Micro art refers to artworks created on an extremely small scale, such as paintings on a grain of rice.
- Some artists specialize in micro-scale photography, capturing minute details of everyday objects.
- The concept of micro-drawing has gained attention online, highlighting the skill and precision required to create such intricate pieces.
Cultural References
- The term 'microaggression' refers to subtle, often unintentional, discriminatory comments or actions.
- Microbreweries have surged in popularity, focusing on small-scale beer production with unique flavors.
- Microfinance is a significant movement aimed at providing small loans to help people in developing countries start businesses.
Origin of 'micro'
Main points about word origin
- The prefix 'micro-' comes from the Greek word 'mikros', meaning 'small'.
- First recorded use of 'micro' in English was in the 19th century, mainly in scientific terms.
- Many scientific terms with 'micro-' were developed during the rise of microscopy, a field that blossomed in the 1600s.
The word 'micro' comes from the Greek word 'mikros', meaning small. It has been used in various fields such as technology, biology, and finance to denote something small in size or value. The concept of 'micro' has become increasingly relevant in the modern world with the advancement of technology and the study of microscopic organisms. From microchips to microfinance, the word 'micro' plays a significant role in describing things on a small scale.
See also: microbe, microphone.