hemicycle

[ hem-i-sahy-kuhl ]

noun

1. a semicircle.
2. a semicircular structure.
3. hemicyclium.

hemicycle

/ -ˈsɪk-; ˈhɛmɪˌsaɪkəl; ˌhɛmɪˈsaɪklɪk /

noun

1. a semicircular structure, room, arena, wall, etc
2. a rare word for semicircle

Derived Forms

• hemicyclic, adjective

Other Words From

• hem·i·cy·clic [hem-i-, sahy, -klik, -, sik, -lik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hemicycle¹

1595–1605; < French hémicycle < Latin hēmicyclium < Greek hēmikýklion See hemi-, cycle

Example Sentences

A general view of the hemicycle at the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium, February 24, 2016.

From Reuters

Back in the other world of central Dijon, the mayor’s office is housed in the Palace of the Dukes, approached through the magnificent hemicycle of the Place de la Libération, or Liberation Square.

From New York Times

A general view of the hemicycle at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, November 24, 2021.

From Reuters

The chapel — part of the hemicycle entrance to the cemetery, where two other chapels are up for auction — was in good shape after a recent restoration paid for by the city.

From New York Times

It’s uncertain who will be seated in the hemicycle, and whether the ineligible separatists will try to pass their seats to substitute candidates.

From New York Times