Definition of helm

The word "helm" originated from the Old English word "hlām," which referred to the wooden frame that covered the head and protected it during battle. This framework supported a metal cap or mail coif that covered the rest of the head. Over time, the meaning of "helm" evolved as the use of wooden frames declined, and functional helmets came into fashion. By the 14th century, "helm" referred to the top portion of a suit of armor that covered the head, neck, and shoulders. It was also used as a general term to describe the headgear worn by a ship's captain, which helped protect them from the elements and served as a symbol of authority. The nautical usage of "helm" can be traced back to the mid-16th century when seafarers began referring to the ship's steering mechanism as the "handling-apparatus" or "helm." It's believed that this use of "helm" for ship's steering was directly influenced by the captain's protective headgear aboard ships as early as the 14th century. In summary, "helm" evolved from its origins as a protective wooden framework for the head in battle to a reference for functional armor worn during battle and a term for the headgear worn by a ship's captain. Its usage extended to refer to a ship's steering mechanism during the 16th century.