What does headlamp mean?
A headlamp is a lamp designed to be worn on the head, usually secured by a headband or attached to a helmet. Its light points forward, allowing the wearer to see while keeping both hands free. Headlamps are used for activities such as walking at night, caving, climbing, cycling, and emergency work. The word can also denote a forward-facing lamp fitted to a vehicle, machine, or other apparatus, though "headlight" is the more familiar term for a car’s front light in everyday English. In British English, "head torch" is a common alternative for the wearable sense; in North American English, "headlamp" is particularly associated with headbands and outdoor equipment. The word is practical and straightforward, but it evokes the useful combination of illumination, mobility, and close, hands-free visibility.
nounA lamp worn on the head, usually attached to a headband or helmet and directed forward. The term can also refer to a forward-facing lamp fitted to the front of a vehicle or machine.
- A portable lamp worn on the head or helmet, usually with a strap and a beam directed forward.
- A forward-facing lamp fitted to the front of a vehicle, machine, or other apparatus.
"She switched on her headlamp and carefully made her way along the dark path."
"The climbers checked their headlamps before entering the tunnel."
"The car's headlamps illuminated the narrow country road."
The standard plural is "headlamps."
"Every member of the team carried spare batteries for their headlamps."
A headlamp lets you keep both hands free, turning a tiny light into an extra pair of eyes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does headlamp come from?
Headlamp is a compound formed in English from "head" and "lamp," indicating a lamp intended to be worn on the head. "Head" descends from Old English, while "lamp" entered English through Latin from Greek lampas, associated with a torch or light. The compound reflects the long-standing practice of attaching lights to the head or helmet for illumination in dark and confined spaces.
Related word forms
How headlamp is actually used
For the wearable sense, British English often uses "head torch" or simply "torch," while "headlamp" is especially common in North American English and outdoor gear. The vehicle sense overlaps with "headlight," although "headlight" is more usual in general automotive usage.
Easily confused with headlamp
A headlamp may be worn on the head or fitted to the front of a vehicle, whereas a headlight is primarily a forward-facing vehicle light.