What does wristband mean?
A wristband is a band or strap worn around the wrist. Its purpose depends on the context: it may display identification, indicate event access, absorb sweat during sport, serve as a decorative accessory, or form part of a wearable electronic device. Wristbands are common at festivals, concerts, hospitals, workplaces, and other controlled-access settings, where they help staff identify people or record relevant information. In sport, the term can refer to a narrow sweatband worn to prevent perspiration from reaching the hand or face. Compared with the broader word “bracelet,” “wristband” tends to emphasize the band’s practical purpose and may imply a modern identification, security, or technology function. The term is familiar in both British and American English and has no standard antonym because it names an object rather than an opposing quality.
nounA band or strap worn around the wrist. It may be used for identification, decoration, access control, exercise, or as part of a wearable electronic device.
- A band or strap worn around the wrist, especially for identification, decoration, access control, or as part of a wearable device.
- A band worn around the wrist to absorb perspiration during exercise or sport.
"She checked the festival wristband before entering the venue."
"The event staff scanned my wristband and directed me to the correct entrance."
"He wore a black wristband to keep perspiration from running into his eyes while playing tennis."
The standard plural is “wristbands.”
"The volunteers wore brightly colored wristbands."
A wristband can be a name tag, a concert souvenir, or the key that unlocks a door.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does wristband come from?
“Wristband” is an English compound formed from “wrist” and “band.” “Wrist” descends from Old English and refers to the joint or the part connecting the hand to the forearm, while “band” entered English from Old French through Anglo-Norman usage. Like “wristlet” and “wristwatch,” the compound uses the inherited Germanic root “wrist” in a word naming an object associated with the wrist.
Related word forms
How wristband is actually used
In contemporary usage, “wristband” often suggests a functional or electronic band rather than a decorative bracelet. The word is also used for narrow bands worn by athletes to absorb sweat. There is no significant British–US distinction.
Easily confused with wristband
A wristband is a band worn around the wrist, whereas a wristwatch is a watch worn on the wrist.