Definition

Noun: A pickelhaube is a distinctive military helmet characterized by a prominent pointed spike (or "pickel") on its top. It was historically worn by German soldiers, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and became an iconic symbol of the Prussian and later German imperial armies.

Usage

The word pickelhaube is used as a countable noun to refer to this specific type of helmet. It is typically used in historical or military contexts.

Examples

• The museum's collection features an original pickelhaube from the First World War.
• In many historical photographs, Prussian officers are easily identified by their pickelhauben.
• The design of the pickelhaube was intended to deflect saber blows.

Advanced Usage

• The pickelhaube is often studied as an element of military uniform history and as a symbol of German militarism.
• Collectors of militaria highly value authentic pickelhauben.

Variants and Related Words

• Spiked helmet: A more general, descriptive term in English for a helmet with a spike, which can refer to the pickelhaube or similar helmets from other cultures.

Synonyms

• Spiked helmet
• Prussian helmet (context-specific)

Different Meanings

The word pickelhaube does not have other common meanings in English. It refers specifically to this historical piece of military headgear.

Noun

1. a spiked helmet worn by German soldiers