half mourning

noun

1. a mourning garb less somber than deep mourning, usually following a period of deep mourning.
2. the period during which it is worn.

half-mourning

noun

1. dark grey clothes worn by some during a period after full formal mourning

Word History and Origins

Origin of half mourning¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

During the final months, jewelry and ribbons again became permissible, as a segue into the ultimate six months of “half mourning,” when colors such as gray, lavender and mauve would gradually re-enter the wardrobe.

From Salon

According to the text, the bride chose the half mourning colors in honor of those who died in the Civil War; it “may have been more respectful than a showier bridal gown while so many families still grieved.”

From Forbes

Two “half mourning” gowns worn by Queen Alexandra after the death of her mother, Queen Victoria.

From Forbes

In the back left corner are two “half mourning” evening gowns worn by Queen Alexandra in 1902, a year after the death of her mother.

From Forbes

Some incorporate more illustrious black fabrics and the gray and mauve that were considered appropriate for “half mourning,” which followed the initial period in black.

From Newsweek