earphone

UK: ˈɪəfəʊn | US: ˈɪrfoʊn

Definition

  1. n. a small device worn on or in the ear to listen to audio privately

Structure
ear <organ of hearing>phone <sound>
Etymology

The word "earphone" combines "ear," from Old English ēare (the organ of hearing), and "phone," from Greek phōnē (sound, voice). It emerged in the early 20th century with the rise of audio technology, literally meaning "sound for the ear." The term reflects a direct functional description, merging anatomical and acoustic elements.

Examples

  1. She plugged her earphones into the phone to listen to music.

  2. Wireless earphones are popular for their convenience.

  3. He removed his earphones when someone spoke to him.

  4. Noise-canceling earphones block external sounds effectively.

  5. The earphone battery lasts for six hours on a single charge.