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.
Babar looked to pull Archer but, too late, tried to fend off a 91 mph (147 kph) delivery that ricocheted off his glove and helmet and ballooned to Jordan Cox at third slip. — ABC News, 30 Aug. 2026 The league could perhaps benefit from such messaging in its stadiums and on its helmets because DUI arrests or other traffic incidents involving NFL people are not uncommon. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Instead, his navy jersey, meticulously embroidered with a white number 16 hangs unfettered with his unworn Bears helmet resting on a shelf above. — Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 Another really handy feature that XTU has included is a magnetic instant snap-in magnetic mount, which locks in securely to the bottom of the camera allowing for it to be mounted in various ways – selfie stick, tripod, dashcam or on a helmet. — New Atlas, 29 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 1 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about helmet

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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