head register

noun

: the upper division in the pitch range of the human voice beginning at the point where the vocal cords readjust to produce the higher musical tone and characterized by a lighter tone quality

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of head register was in 1845

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Head register.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/head%20register. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!