headgear

noun

head·​gear ˈhed-ˌgir 

1

: a covering or protective device for the head

2

: a harness for a horse's head

Synonyms of headgear

• hat
• helmet
• cap

Examples of headgear in a Sentence

The law requires cyclists to wear protective headgear.

Her preferred form of headgear is a big, floppy hat.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples of non-compliant headgear/face coverings include inappropriate face paint, offensive prosthetics, make up or masks intended to frighten, and fursuits. — Renee Anderson, CBS News, 6 Sep. 2026

Paramount Great Again hat, but didn’t expect the mischievous executive to turn up in Edinburgh wearing the headgear. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026

With his vision obscured by his makeshift headgear, Momota could be seen clumsily making his way around as visitors watched nearby. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 17 Aug. 2026

Despite neither having professional boxing records, their bout, fought with headgear, was praised for its intensity and athleticism, particularly from Lex, whose jab, length, and coordination proved decisive. — Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for headgear

• midyear
• nazir
• ophir
• reindeer
• switchgear
• tuyere
• acyclovir
• asthenosphere
• ganciclovir
• magnetosphere
• atmosphere
• biosphere

Kids Definition

headgear

noun

head·​gear -ˌgi(ə)r 

1

: a covering (as a hat or helmet) for the head

2

: harness for a horse's head