helmet

helmet [hel′mət]

n.

[OFr, dim. of helme, helmet < Frank * helm: for IE base see HELM¹]

1. a protective covering for the head; specif.,

a) the headpiece of ancient or medieval armor: see ARMOR

b) the metal head covering worn in modern warfare

c) the rigid head covering with inner padding and often a wire face mask used in football, lacrosse, and hockey

d) the mesh-faced mask used in fencing

e) the headpiece of a diver's suit, equipped with air tubes, glass windows, etc.

f) a fireman's protective hat

g) a pith hat with a wide brim, worn as a sunshade in hot countries

h) the rigid head covering worn by a motorcyclist

i) HARD HAT

2. something suggesting such a headpiece in appearance or function, as a galea of a flower

vt.

to cover or equip with a helmet

helmeted

adj.