headphones

head-phones · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A pair of small speakers worn over or in the ears, connected to an audio device for private listening.

  2. 2.

    Any device worn on the head for audio purposes, including those with microphones.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    put on headphones — to wear headphones
  • •
    wireless headphones — headphones that connect without cables

Related words

See also: audio, earbuds, earphones, headset
Synonyms: cans, earphones, headset

Etymology

A compound of head and phones (from Greek phone, "sound"). First used in the early 20th century with the development of audio technology.