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
The Brazilian appeared to have won any doubters over by the time he was substituted at half-time in extra time, receiving great affection from the crowd despite missing a one-on-one that would have made the score 3-0 and surely put the game to bed. Mario Cortegana, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025 At half-time — in a stadium used to hosting professional and collegiate sporting events — the Marching Cardinals performed a portion of their field show. Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2025 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 21 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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