noun
Uncommon
headset
HEHD-seht
Headset (noun) means a combined pair of headphones and a microphone, worn on the head for calls, gaming, or broadcasting. Example: “The pilot spoke to air traffic control through her headset.”
noun
1
A combined pair of headphones and a microphone, worn on the head for calls, gaming, or broadcasting.
"The pilot spoke to air traffic control through her headset."
"He put on a headset to join the video conference."
2
On a bicycle, the set of bearings connecting the front fork to the frame.
"The mechanic tightened the loose headset before the race."
How to use headset
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA headphone-and-microphone unit, or a bicycle steering-bearing assembly.
Common pairings
wear a headset
gaming headset
VR headset
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Word forms
- Plural
- headsets
Fill the gap
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The pilot spoke to air traffic control through her _____.
Etymology
A compound of head and set, describing a set of components worn on or fitted to the head area.
Synonyms
View more →
earphones with mic
comms set
Frequently asked questions
What does “headset” mean?
The word “headset” means a combined pair of headphones and a microphone, worn on the head for calls, gaming, or broadcasting. In plain terms, a headphone-and-microphone unit, or a bicycle steering-bearing assembly.
How do you pronounce “headset”?
“Headset” is pronounced HEHD-seht (/ˈhɛdsɛt/ in IPA).
How do you use “headset” in a sentence?
Here is “headset” used in a sentence: “The pilot spoke to air traffic control through her headset.”
What part of speech is “headset”?
“Headset” is a noun.
Is “headset” a common word?
“Headset” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “headset” have?
“Headset” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a combined pair of headphones and a microphone, worn on the head for calls, gaming, or broadcasting.
What is the difference between a headset and headphones?
A headset combines headphones with a built-in microphone, allowing both listening and speaking, which makes it suited to calls, gaming, or broadcasting. Headphones alone only allow listening and have no microphone.
What does headset mean on a bicycle?
On a bicycle, the headset is the set of bearings that connects the front fork to the frame, allowing the handlebars and front wheel to turn smoothly. This is a completely different meaning from the audio device sense.
Why do gamers and call centre workers both use the word headset?
Both use headset because it describes any combined headphone-and-microphone device worn on the head, whether for voice chat during gaming or for handling customer calls. The core meaning, hands-free audio input and output, is the same in both contexts.
