(In plural and singular) a pair of ear muffs or similar coverings (now typically a piece of equipment resembling a pair of headphones) providing protection for the ears against noise or in cold weather.
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in Punch.
Definition of ear protector in US English:
ear protector
noun
(In plural and singular) a pair of ear muffs or similar coverings (now typically a piece of equipment resembling a pair of headphones) providing protection for the ears against noise or in cold weather.