microchip
/mikɾoˈt͡ʃip/masculine
The Spanish word for microchip is microchip.
The term microchip is used in Spanish to refer to an integrated circuit.
Meaning: integrated circuit (noun)
Which one should you use?
While microchip is a common way to refer to the device, microcircuito is the more formal technical term used to describe an integrated circuit.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In México, the term microchip is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is masculine, so it is preceded by the masculine article el when referring to a specific microchip, as in el microchip.
How do you pronounce it?
/mikɾoˈtʃip/
Did you know?
- If you tell a Spanish speaker you need to cambiar el chip, they will not think you are repairing a computer. They will understand that you are trying to change your way of thinking or your perspective on a situation.
- In a casino, a gambling 'chip' is called a ficha, but if you use that word to describe a computer component, a Spanish speaker will be completely confused. Unlike English, the word ficha never carries the meaning of an electronic 'chip'.
- In formal Spanish writing, microchip is often printed in italics to signal that it is a loanword from English.
Examples in context
- Los microchips son componentes fundamentales en la industria de la electrónica. Su capacidad de almacenamiento y procesamiento los hace indispensables en dispositivos como computadoras y smartphones.Microchips are fundamental components in the electronics industry. Their storage and processing capabilities make them essential in devices such as computers and smartphones.
- El microchip es muy pequeño.The microchip is very small.
- Necesitamos un microchip para la computadora.We need a microchip for the computer.
- Ese microchip controla el sistema.That microchip controls the system.
Example conversation
María and Javier are repairing a computer together.
- MaríaJavier, ¿está quemado el microchip?Javier, is the microchip burnt?
- JavierSí, María, parece que el microchip falló.Yes, María, it looks like the microchip failed.
- María¿Puedes reemplazar el microchip ahora mismo?Can you replace the microchip right now?
- JavierClaro, solo necesito la herramienta adecuada.Sure, I just need the right tool.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “microchip” translations and entries microchip, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
