'helmet' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'helmet', which was derived from Old French 'he(a)lmet', a diminutive of 'helme', meaning 'helmet'.

'helmet' changed from the Old French word 'he(a)lmet' and eventually became the modern English word 'helmet'.

Initially, it meant 'a small protective head covering', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a protective head covering made of hard material'.