megaphone

[meg-uh-fohn]

noun

1. a cone-shaped device for magnifying or directing the voice, chiefly used in addressing a large audience out of doors or in calling to someone at a distance.

verb (used with or without object)

megaphoned, megaphoning 

1. to transmit or speak through or as if through a megaphone.

megaphone

/ ˌmɛɡəˈfɒnɪk, ˈmɛɡəˌfəʊn /

noun

1. a funnel-shaped instrument used to amplify the voice See also loud-hailer

Other Word Forms

• megaphonically adverb
• megaphonic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of megaphone¹

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80; mega- + -phone

Example Sentences

“I know when law is not enforced what chaos and corruption results,” said Chotev, as protesters shouted into megaphones nearby.

From Los Angeles Times

One woman on a megaphone pleaded with the officers to leave their posts and join the protesters so they could be on the right side of history.

From Los Angeles Times

Activists with megaphones were able to warn locals at the park before the contingent arrived, according to police sources.

From Los Angeles Times

“They could have gone through the streets doing a megaphone to evacuate. If the system’s failing, there’s other ways to notify people. ... I don’t understand why there was no notice.”

From Los Angeles Times

A marriage counsellor would surely suggest they stop squabbling and sit down and talk frankly - without the megaphone politics.

From BBC

Related Words

• bullhorn 
• public address system