The meaning of HALF is either of two equal parts that compose something; also : a part approximately equal to one of these. How to use half in a sentence.

HALF definition: 1. either of the two equal or nearly equal parts that together make up a whole: 2. a lot: 3. Half…. Learn more.

Learn what half means with clear definitions, pronunciation, synonyms, and real-world examples. Simple explanations to help you use half correctly.

HALF definition: one of two equal or approximately equal parts of a divisible whole, as an object, or unit of measure or time; a part of a whole equal or almost equal to the remainder. See examples of half …

Mar 18, 2026 · In English, the first sense (half past) is the only sense in current use. The second sense (half-hour before) is almost exclusively used in reference to other cultural or linguistic backgrounds …

1. To the extent of exactly or nearly 50 percent: The tank is half empty. 2. Not completely or sufficiently; partly: only half right.

You use half to say that something is only partly the case or happens to only a limited extent. His eyes were half closed. His refrigerator frequently looked half empty. She'd half expected him to withdraw …

Nov 29, 2025 · When we talk about what is half of something, we mean one of two equal parts that a thing can be divided into. Learning about halves helps us see balance and share things more fairly.

When something is divided into two equal sections, half is one of the two parts. You can split a brownie in half if you want to share it with your friend.

There are 27 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun half, six of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.