half-truth

noun

ˈhaf-ˌtrüth 

ˈhäf-

1

: a statement that is only partially true

2

: a statement that mingles truth and falsehood with deliberate intent to deceive

Examples of half-truth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Tao also told me that the narrative of math as having practical importance was a half-truth, at best. — Rivka Galchen, New Yorker, 1 Nov. 2026

Yorkshiremen have no truck with half-truths or avoidance of big issues. — Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2026

These accusations are utter nonsense, concocted from distortions, half-truths and lies. — Kathleen Parker, Washington Post, 23 Oct. 2026

Years of deception, half-truths, and emotional compromises finally surface, forcing Rasheda, Geneva, Naomi, Tiffany, and Bridgette to confront not just the men in their lives, but one another. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for half-truth

• bluetooth
• forsooth
• sawtooth
• tolbooth
• uncouth
• untruth
• vermouth
• luth
• muth
• sleuth
• tooth
• youth

Kids Definition

half-truth

noun

-ˌtrüth

: a statement that is only partly true

especially : one that deliberately mixes truth and falsehood