headshot

American  

[hed-shot] / ˈhɛdˌʃɒt /

Or head shot

noun

1. a photograph of someone's face, especially a promotional photograph of a model, actor, or author.

2. mug shot.

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Etymology

Origin of headshot

First recorded in 1935–40; head ( def. ) + shot ¹ ( def. ) (in the sense “photograph”)

Example Sentences

He’s a guy with nothing: no money, no prospects, no future other than more soul-draining hours of scanning boxes at a warehouse where Michelle’s headshot looms on the break room wall.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 23, 2025

Below is a photo of a young woman, a headshot that might have been taken in a studio.

From BBC • Aug. 3, 2025

Reeve wasn’t the producers’ first pick, but the size of the actor’s neck in a headshot made them reconsider, hoping he could build himself up to fighting shape.

From Salon • Jul. 10, 2025

Digles, of Ascent, was seated at my table; the Outstanding Agency Professional nominees were announced, and his headshot flashed on the projector screen, but he did not win.

From Slate • Mar. 3, 2025

I must’ve left my headshot and resume at her place, last night, when this entire adventure scheme was hatched.

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle