Half

(hăf), n.; pl. HÄLVES (hävz). [A-S. healf, half, O. Sax., O. Fries., D., & Sw. half, Dan. halv, Icel. hálfr, Ger. halb, Goth. halbs.] One of two equal parts into which any thing may be divided, or considered as divided; — sometimes followed by of.

In half, in two; — a vulgarism sometimes used instead of into halves; as, to cut in half. [Colloq. and low.]

Mr. Pecksniff held the patient's head between his two hands, as if without that assistance it must inevitably come in half. Dickens.

To cry halves, to claim an equal share. — To go halves, to have an equal share.

Half is much used in composition; as, half-barrel, half-dollar, &c.

(häf), v. t. To halve. [Obs.] See HALVE. Wotton.

(hăf), adv. In part, or in an equal part or degree. “Half loth and half consenting.” Dryden.