headset

[ hed-set ]

noun

1. a device consisting of one or two earphones with a headband for holding them over the ears and with a microphone attached, used for telephone calls or other spoken communication over distance:

   One of the coaches on the sideline threw his headset to the ground and started yelling at the ref.

2. earphones or headphones:

   The house DJ set up a mixer and a mic, put on his headset, and got the party started.

3. Also called Head Mounted Display,. a visor, goggles, etc., worn on the head and over the eyes to display digital content, as for virtual reality or augmented reality: The army will begin using the extended reality headset for live combat missions as well as training.

   A mid-range VR headset will have resolution comparable to more expensive headsets, but a smaller field of view.

   The army will begin using the extended reality headset for live combat missions as well as training.

headset

/ ˈhɛdˌsɛt /

noun

1. a pair of headphones, esp with a microphone attached

Word History and Origins

Origin of headset¹

First recorded in 1920–25; head + set

Example Sentences

VR is often best known by its headset, which allows viewers to explore digital worlds rendered in real-time.

From BBC

The company has also reportedly made job cuts at WhatsApp, Instagram and Reality Labs, its virtual reality business responsible for the Oculus headset.

From BBC

Usually operating in groups of three, the gang members wear bluetooth headsets to communicate and warn each other if security guards are watching them.

From BBC

When I fly, I don’t need to wear noise-canceling headsets or Airbuds; all I need to do is keep the hearing aids in and turned off.

From Salon

Bailenson and other Stanford researchers tested out the Meta Quest 3, a “mixed reality” headset that lets people blend physical and virtual worlds.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• headphone
• headphones