earflap

noun ear·flap \ ˈir-ˌflap \

Updated on: 27 Apr 2018

Definition of earflap

: a warm covering for the ears; especially : an extension on the lower edge of a cap that may be folded up or down

Recent Examples of earflap from the Web

The majority of hitters have added the padded plastic that is bolted to the earflap on the batting helmet and extends down a player’s jaw line, covering the cheek bone.

— ryan divish, The Seattle Times, "All your favorite Mariners are doing it: Why face guards have become all the rage around baseball," 21 Apr. 2018
Willie Calhoun, who was the Rangers' left fielder in the B game, said that the incident reinforces his decision to wear a helmet that features a pad that extends from the earflap and protects his jaw.

— jeff wilson, star-telegram, "Which deal is most important to Rangers: Martinez or Lincecum? | Fort Worth Star-Telegram," 6 Mar. 2018
Eagles center Jason Kelce sported an Elmer Fudd-style wool cap with earflaps that the entire team was given as host-community gifts upon landing.

— USA TODAY, "Patriots, Eagles tackle the serious and silly at media night," 29 Jan. 2018
In 1983, earflap helmets were required in the major leagues, although many players still wear helmets covering only the ear exposed to an oncoming pitch.

— matt schudel, Washington Post, "Creighton J. Hale, Little League chief and developer of batting helmet, dies at 93," 21 Oct. 2017
Rickard appeared to be hit between the left earflap and the bill of his helmet by an 89 mph fastball from Angels right-hander Troy Scribner.

— eduardo a. encina, baltimoresun.com, "Orioles outfielder Joey Rickard leaves game after being hit in head with pitch," 9 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'earflap.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of earflap

1823

in the meaning defined above

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