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 Lights on the front of your bike and the back, lights on your helmet, lights on your wheels. Judy Berlfein, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Nov. 2023 Following the touchdown, Kelce celebrated on the sidelines by flexing his bicep before his teammate and fellow tight end, Noah Gray, ran up to him for a jocular head butting of their helmets. Ingrid Vasquez, Peoplemag, 21 Nov. 2023 In what appeared to be an apology posted to his Instagram story, Rife directed anyone offended by his jokes to a link that led them to a website for special needs helmets. Zack Sharf, Variety, 21 Nov. 2023 Additionally, a baby helmet is used to change the shape of the skull. Maria Carter, Parents, 16 Nov. 2023 Other stand-out pieces include a distressed balaclava that focuses on function and comfort, inspired by F1 driver helmets. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 14 Nov. 2023 In the below clip, Jack Rooney (John Bradley) and Jin Cheng (Jess Hong) explore a rather unique VR helmet. James Hibberd, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Nov. 2023 When another rioter pinned Metropolitan Police Officer Daniel Hodges against a door, Cappuccio ripped a gas mask off the officer's face and dislodged his helmet, prosecutors said. CBS News, 3 Nov. 2023 The collection is quite utilitarian and is useful with pieces like snowboards, skis, helmets, and poles for downhill, cross-skiing, and hiking. Essence, 3 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'helmet.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near helmet

Cite this Entry

“Helmet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helmet. Accessed 11 Dec. 2023.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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