half-moon

¹

[ haf-moon, hahf- ]

noun

1. the moon when, at either quadrature, half its disk is illuminated.
2. the phase of the moon at this time.
3. something having the shape of a half-moon or crescent.

Half Moon

²

noun

1. the ship in which Henry Hudson made his voyage to explore America in 1609.

half-moon

noun

1. the moon at first or last quarter when half its face is illuminated
2. the time at which a half-moon occurs
3. 1. something shaped like a half-moon
   2. ( as modifier )

      half-moon spectacles

4. anatomy a nontechnical name for lunula

Word History and Origins

Origin of half-moon¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Example Sentences

Guests will be able to visit 10 wineries for tastings — some of which are offering additional attractions like an eclipse eve tarot card reading, special slushies and half-moon cookies.

From Seattle Times

The largest planet in the solar system will dominate the early evening sky on January 18, appearing beside a glowing half-moon.

From National Geographic

The barrel is decorated with a sun, a half-moon and a Sinhalese lion, the symbols of the King of Kandy.

From Seattle Times

The barrel is decorated with the symbols of the King of Kandy: a sun, a half-moon and a Sinhalese lion.

From Washington Times

The moody space, filled with cushy half-moon booths, is perfect for postgame cocktails.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• arc
• arch
• contour
• loop
• trajectory