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.
At her side, Kalista wears a pink and blue helmet, black gloves, knee pads and ice skates, stepping back and forth alongside her mom. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 28 Apr. 2025 Washington Commanders managing partner Josh Harris (L) signs a Commanders helmet while joined by Washington D.C. Russell Leung, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2025 The attacker was dressed in all black clothing and wore a helmet and balaclava, Reuters also reported, citing local newspaper Ouest France. Greg Norman, FOXNews.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Video of the takedown shows Pope emerge from the house wearing a vintage-style soldier’s helmet. Caleb Lunetta, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 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 3 May. 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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