headphone

noun

head·​phone ˈhed-ˌfōn 

plural headphones

: an earphone held over the ear by a band worn on the head

—usually plural

So for the gamer to gain that "edge," he must have the best mouse, the smoothest mouse pad or the most sensitive headphones.

—Chris Yong

Strapping on cushy headphones the size of loaves of bread, I'd repeatedly listen to Mingus' "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat" and the music of artists such as Jelly Roll Morton and Billie Holiday.

—Robert Wilder

also : a small earphone inserted into the ear : earbud

in-ear headphones

Examples of headphone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Currently 43 percent off, this set of Bose headphones is a worthwhile investment in your in-flight comfort. —Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 22 Dec. 2024

The lawn was covered with posts that were each topped by a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, and as cellar master Vincent Chaperon told us to don a set, an army of waiters appeared bearing trays covered with glasses of DP 2015. —Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 22 Dec. 2024

If this workaholic is easily frazzled by distractions, a pair of noise-cancelling headphones by Bose will help enhance their focus and productivity. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024

Sonos Ace, $349, Amazon These over-ear headphones from Sonos feature a stylish design, superior sound and up to 30 hours of battery life. —Perri Ormont Blumberg Fox News, Fox News, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

headphone

noun

head·​phone ˈhed-ˌfōn 

: an earphone held over the ear by a band worn on the head

—usually used in plural