header

noun

head·​er ˈhe-dər How to pronounce header (audio)
Synonyms of headernext
1
: one that removes heads
especially : a grain-harvesting machine that cuts off the grain heads and elevates them to a wagon
2
a
: a brick or stone laid in a wall with its end toward the face of the wall
b
: a beam fitted at one side of an opening to support free ends of floor joists, studs, or rafters
c
: a horizontal structural or finish piece over an opening : lintel
d
: a conduit (such as an exhaust pipe for a many-cylindered engine) into which a number of smaller conduits open
e
: a mounting plate through which electrical terminals pass from a sealed device (such as a transistor)
3
informal : a fall or dive headfirst
took a header into the pool
4
: a shot or pass in soccer made by heading the ball
5
b
: information (such as a page number) printed or placed at the top of each page of a document compare footer sense 2

Examples of header in a Sentence

She tripped on the rock and took a header. He scored with a header past the goalie.
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.
Sports enthusiasts can go for a double-header of sports, watching a World Cup match during the day and catching an Atlanta Braves game at night on June 15, June 18, July 1, and July 7. Susan B. Barnes, Southern Living, 9 June 2026 Itten twice came close with headers that sailed just over the bar, but Australia survived. Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2026 Whether from set pieces or open play, its accurate delivery pairs effectively with high-level headers of the ball. Esteban Campanela, CNN Money, 7 June 2026 Kai Havertz put the four-time champions in front with a header from a free kick in the second minute but Antonee Robinson tied the score in the 37th with a left-foot volley from the top of the arc following Christian Pulisic's corner kick. CBS News, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for header

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Cite this Entry

“Header.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/header. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

header

noun
head·​er ˈhed-ər How to pronounce header (audio)
: a fall or dive headfirst
took a header downstairs

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