helmet

noun

hel·​met ˈhel-mət 

1

: a covering or enclosing headpiece of ancient or medieval armor see armor illustration

2

: any of various protective head coverings usually made of a hard material to resist impact

3

: something resembling a helmet

helmeted

ˈhel-mə-təd 

adjective

helmetlike

ˈhel-mət-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of helmet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The rider, who was not wearing a helmet, ran the stop sign and drove into the path of the GMC leading to the crash, police said. — Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 June 2026

Oh, and that helmet design doesn’t seem Greek enough. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 23 June 2026

Equestrians must sign a waiver in order to participate, and children must wear helmets if on a bike or scooter. — Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 June 2026

Many fans were seen wearing Viking helmets and garb as the large groups made their way into the stadium and inside surrounding bars and restaurants. — Anna Lazarus Caplan, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, diminutive of helme helmet, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English helm helmet, Old High German helan to conceal — more at hell

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing helmet

• crash helmet
• pith helmet

Kids Definition

helmet

noun

hel·​met ˈhel-mət 

1

: a covering or enclosing headpiece of armor

2

: any of various protective head coverings usually made of a hard material

helmetlike

-ˌlīk 

adjective