helmet

noun

hel·​met ˈhel-mət How to pronounce helmet (audio)
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 adjective
helmetlike adjective

Examples of helmet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When the broadcast returned the next half inning, Plouffe was wearing an oversized helmet, which led to more laughter. Dan Hayes, New York Times, 11 July 2025 Regardless, there's no denying this is one seriously cool helmet; one which packs in a lot more detail than your average Star Wars helmet. Kim Snaith, Space.com, 10 July 2025 In the photos, he is seen smiling and posing with a bear in the background while wearing a motorcycle helmet. Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 10 July 2025 When Morris was detained, an officer discovered multiple firearms, including two AR-15-style rifles, ballistic vests and a helmet in his car, the complaint states. Chloe Atkins, NBC news, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for helmet

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of helmet was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Helmet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helmet. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

helmet

noun
hel·​met ˈhel-mət How to pronounce helmet (audio)
1
: a covering or enclosing headpiece of armor
2
: any of various protective head coverings usually made of a hard material
helmetlike adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on helmet

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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