# microchip

/ˈmaɪˌkɹoʊˈtʃɪp/ (US) · /mˈaɪkɹəʊtʃˌɪp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/microchip
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a tiny piece of silicon that contains a computer circuit. It is used to store information or control electronic devices like phones and cars.

For teachers: a small electronic circuit that is manufactured on a thin slice of semiconductor material, typically silicon. It serves as the primary component in modern computing and digital electronics.

## Examples

- The computer uses a microchip to process data.
- Modern smartphones contain several microchips that handle everything from the camera to the battery management.
- The development of the microchip revolutionized the computing industry by allowing complex logic circuits to be miniaturized and integrated into a single, compact package.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
