A headband is a curved band worn around your head to keep your hair out of your face or eyes. Most headbands are made of plastic, fabric, or elastic, and they sit across the top of your head like an arch, tucking behind your ears to stay in place.

Athletes often wear headbands to keep sweat and hair away during games. Tennis players like Roger Federer made headbands famous on the court, and basketball players wear them to stay focused during fast action. Some headbands are stretchy and soft, while others are hard and smooth.

Beyond their practical use, people also wear headbands as fashion accessories, choosing colors and styles that match their outfits or express their personality. A sparkly headband might complete a party outfit, while a simple sports headband keeps you comfortable during soccer practice.

The word can also describe the band that goes over your head on headphones, connecting the two earpieces. When you adjust your headphones for a better fit, you're adjusting the headband.