earpiece

noun

ear·​piece ˈir-ˌpēs 

1

: the part of an instrument (such as a telephone, stethoscope, or hearing aid) that is placed against or inserted into the outer opening of the ear

especially : earphone

2

: one of the two sidepieces that support eyeglasses by passing over or behind the ears

Examples of earpiece in a Sentence

the earpiece of a stethoscope

Recent Examples on the Web

He was observed Friday and Sunday at the club, wearing a radio earpiece, taking photos of Secret Service agents on the grounds and carrying a round of ammunition in his pocket, according to a criminal complaint. — Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026

The press release stated that the individual, later identified as Jeanine John Taele, 38, was seen wandering around the golf course while wearing an earpiece and taking photographs and videos of federal agents’ security-planning activities. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 5 Aug. 2026

Lindsey Graham always had a deep appreciation for earpieces, motorcades, and heavily secured environments. — Mark Leibovich, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026

The brand also created Bieber’s audio earpiece and guitar strap for the performance, carrying the Skylrk credit from the clothes into the equipment. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 19 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

earpiece

noun

ear·​piece -ˌpēs 

: a part of an instrument (as a telephone) that is placed against or in the ear

especially : earphone

Medical Definition

earpiece

noun

ear·​piece ˈi(ə)r-ˌpēs 

1

: a part of an instrument (as a stethoscope or hearing aid) that is inserted into the outer opening of the ear

2

: one of the two sidepieces that support eyeglasses by passing over or behind the ears