headgear

noun

head·​gear ˈhed-ˌgir How to pronounce headgear (audio)
1
: a covering or protective device for the head
2
: a harness for a horse's head

Examples of headgear in a Sentence

The law requires cyclists to wear protective headgear. Her preferred form of headgear is a big, floppy hat.
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.
Superhero capes, extravagant headgear and glitter are also popular. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025 The project entailed wearing a spacesuit similar to the fencing uniform and headgear. Glae Thien, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 July 2025 The former college football coach is known for wearing oversized mascot headgear during the broadcasts. Daniel Wine, CNN Money, 23 Apr. 2025 The 27-year-old will wear protective headgear after requiring 25 stitches around his left ear following an incident in Palace’s victory over local London rivals Millwall in the previous round on March 1. Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for headgear

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of headgear was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Headgear.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/headgear. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

headgear

noun
head·​gear -ˌgi(ə)r How to pronounce headgear (audio)
1
: a covering (as a hat or helmet) for the head
2
: harness for a horse's head

More from Merriam-Webster on headgear

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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