English Reference
noun

headset

n.
US /ˈhɛdˌsɛt/ UK /hˈɛdsɛt/ head·set UK spelling headsets

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Computing

    a set of headphones, often with a microphone, used for talking on the phone or listening to audio.

    an electronic device comprising headphones and usually an integrated microphone, allowing for hands-free communication or private audio monitoring.

    Simple

    The office provided every employee with a wireless headset for taking customer calls.

    In context

    The customer support representative adjusted her headset before answering the next call in the queue to ensure the microphone was positioned correctly.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    a device worn over the eyes and ears to experience virtual reality (VR).

    a head-mounted display used to provide immersive virtual reality or augmented reality experiences.

    Simple

    He put on the VR headset and felt like he was walking on the moon.

    In context

    The latest virtual reality headset features high-resolution displays and integrated spatial audio to enhance the user's sense of presence within the digital environment.

    VR gogglesHMD
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Sport

    the part of a bicycle that lets the handlebars turn the front wheel.

    the set of bearings on a bicycle that provides a rotatable interface between the fork and the head tube of the frame.

    Simple

    The bike felt shaky because the headset was loose and needed a quick repair.

    In context

    After riding through the winter, the cyclist noticed a distinct grinding sensation in the headset, suggesting that the bearings required immediate cleaning and regreasing.


From head + set.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated