helmet

American  

[hel-mit] / ˈhɛl mɪt /

noun

1. any of various forms of protective head covering worn by soldiers, firefighters, divers, cyclists, etc.

2. medieval armor for the head.

3. (in fencing, singlestick, etc.) a protective device for the head and face consisting of reinforced wire mesh.

4. anything resembling a helmet in form or position.

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helmet British  

/ ˈhɛlmɪt /

noun

1. a piece of protective or defensive armour for the head worn by soldiers, policemen, firemen, divers, etc

2. biology a part or structure resembling a helmet, esp the upper part of the calyx of certain flowers

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Other Word Forms

• helmeted adjective
• helmetlike adjective
• unhelmeted adjective

Etymology

Origin of helmet

1400–50; late Middle English < Middle French healmet, helmet, diminutive of helme helm ²

Example Sentences

As Díaz got set for his next pitch, Freeman tapped on his helmet in a playful attempt to challenge the call.

From Los Angeles Times

In the complaint, prosecutors allege he was identified as the man wearing a “Zacatecas” jersey and a yellow helmet in a series of videos, one of which was posted to his TikTok account.

From Los Angeles Times

She had a ring of sweat where her bike helmet had pressed against her head, and the sweat was trickling down her cheeks.

From Literature

Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych has lost his bid to overturn an Olympic disqualification over his helmet decorated with tributes to Ukraine’s war dead.

From Los Angeles Times

A lot of it has to do with what’s going on inside the helmet, and Mikaela Shiffrin hinted at that after a disappointing finish this week in the slalom portion of the women’s combined.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• armor
• hard hat
• hat