What does "headset" mean?

1. (audio device) a set of headphones, often with a microphone, used for talking on the phone or listening to audio. 2. (virtual reality) a device worn over the eyes and ears to experience virtual reality (VR). 3. (bicycle part) the part of a bicycle that lets the handlebars turn the front wheel.

headset

US //ˈhɛdˌsɛt// UK //hˈɛdsɛt// head·set

1 audio device (n.)
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.

Example

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

Example

The customer support representative adjusted her headset before answering the next call in the queue to ensure the microphone was positioned correctly.
- headphones
- earphones
2 virtual reality (n.)
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.

Example

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

Example

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 goggles
- HMD

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3 bicycle part (n.)
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.

Example

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

Example

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

Origin

From head + set.