earphone

noun

ear·​phone ˈir-ˌfōn How to pronounce earphone (audio)
: a device that converts electrical energy into sound waves and is worn over or inserted into the ear

Examples of earphone 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.
Specs The $99 Nothing Ear (3a) earphones pick up where the Ear (a) left off, taking an entry-level spot in the company's lineup of earphones and headphones. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 7 Aug. 2026 Du Plessis walked into a team meeting and found 80% of the players in sunglasses, some with earphones. — Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026 The system watched for signs that another person had taken the applicant’s place in front of the computer, or for the use of cell phones or earphones, or even for the applicant leaving the frame. — Nate Anderson, ArsTechnica, 3 Aug. 2026 Their unobtrusive placement complements their immersive musicality, hitherto only possible outdoors with high-end earphones or headphones connected to sophisticated digital acoustic conversion equipment costing a bundle. — Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for earphone

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of earphone was in 1881

Rhymes for earphone

See All Rhymes for earphone

Browse Nearby Words

Earp
earphone
ear pick
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Earphone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earphone. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

earphone

noun
ear·​phone ˈi(ə)r-ˌfōn How to pronounce earphone (audio)
: a device that changes electrical energy into sound waves and is worn over or inserted into the ear

More from Merriam-Webster on earphone

Nglish: Translation of earphone for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about earphone

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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