helm 2 / hɛlm / Show Spelled Pronunciation [ helm ] Show IPA –noun 1. Also, heaume. Also called great helm. a medieval helmet, typically formed as a single cylindrical piece with a flat or raised top, completely enclosing the head.
–verb (used with object) 3. to furnish or cover with a helmet.
Origin: bef. 900; ME, OE; c. D, G
helm; akin to OE
helan to cover.
See hull 1
helm 1 (hělm) n. Nautical The steering gear of a ship, especially the tiller or wheel.
A position of leadership or control: at the helm of the government.
tr.v.
helmed , helm·ing , helms To take the helm of; steer or direct. [Middle English, from Old English helma .]
helm 2 (hělm) n. A helmet. tr.v.
helmed , helm·ing , helms To cover or furnish with a helmet. [Middle English, from Old English; see kel- 1 in Indo-European roots.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
Copyright © 1997. Published by Houghton Mifflin.
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Abbreviations & Acronyms
HELM Health and Environment Library Modules
The American Heritage® Abbreviations Dictionary, Third Edition
Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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