helmet

noun

hel·​met ˈhel-mət How to pronounce helmet (audio)
Synonyms of helmetnext
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
ˈhel-mə-təd How to pronounce helmet (audio)
adjective
helmetlike
ˈhel-mət-ˌlīk How to pronounce helmet (audio)
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.
When the Bills’ first unit was in base defense for three snaps, 2025 third-round pick Landon Jackson got the work with Walker and Oliver while Sanders watched from the sidelines without his helmet on. — Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026 The single-seat cockpit also reflects the GXR-Evo’s track intent with a $9,000 racing seat, a state-of-the-art fire-suppression system, and a cooling setup that connects to the helmet. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026 Magneto-type helmets so activists can’t read the minds of la migra? — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026 Riders must be at least 16 years old, and bikers under 18 must wear a helmet. — Ashley Portillo, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026 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

Phrases Containing helmet

Browse Nearby Words

Helmand
helmet
helmet bird
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Helmet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helmet. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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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
-ˌlīk How to pronounce helmet (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on helmet

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for helmet

Nglish: Translation of helmet for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about helmet

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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