halftime

1 of 2

noun

half·​time ˈhaf-ˌtīm How to pronounce halftime (audio)
ˈhäf-
: an intermission between halves of a game or contest (as in football or basketball)

half-time

2 of 2

adjective

ˈhaf-ˌtīm How to pronounce half-time (audio)
ˈhäf-
: involving or working half the standard hours
half-time adverb

Examples of halftime in a Sentence

Noun The score was tied at halftime. The coaches discussed strategy during halftime.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Milwaukee led by 18 following the first frame, 21 points at halftime and 24 entering the fourth. Jason Beede, Orlando Sentinel, 16 Jan. 2025 Closing time: The Heat led 38-34 at the end of the first period and 66-54 at halftime. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 16 Jan. 2025
Adjective
Showing commitment and willingness, the North Londoners rallied and led the game before half-time. Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 The deadlock was finally broken just before half-time as a clever pass from Yildiz found Vlahovic, who controlled it on the turn and slotted it between the ‘keeper’s legs. Adam Digby, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for halftime 

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1865, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of halftime was in 1861

Dictionary Entries Near halftime

Cite this Entry

“Halftime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/halftime. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

halftime

noun
half·​time ˈhaf-ˌtīm How to pronounce halftime (audio)
ˈhȧf-
: an intermission marking the completion of half of a game (as in football)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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