helmet
Americannoun
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any of various forms of protective head covering worn by soldiers, firefighters, divers, cyclists, etc.
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medieval armor for the head.
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(in fencing, singlestick, etc.) a protective device for the head and face consisting of reinforced wire mesh.
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anything resembling a helmet in form or position.
noun
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a piece of protective or defensive armour for the head worn by soldiers, policemen, firemen, divers, etc
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biology a part or structure resembling a helmet, esp the upper part of the calyx of certain flowers
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of helmet
1400–50; late Middle English < Middle French healmet, helmet, diminutive of helme helm 2
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
We asked our staffers for their dreamiest expectations and they didn’t hold back: space epics, Matt Damon in a helmet and, yes, a “Jackass” movie.
From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026
The Zunis rained stones down on the invaders; one well-aimed boulder struck Coronado’s helmet.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026
BAYSARIYEH, Lebanon — The coffin of Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil floated above the crowd, draped in the red, white and green of the Lebanese flag, with Khalil’s press vest and helmet balanced on top.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026
Eagled-eye fans have noticed Lindblad's racing helmet has three flags on the back - for England, Sweden and India.
From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026
“Hi, Emma,” says the man, taking off his helmet.
From "How to Disappear Completely" by Ali Standish
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.