half-moon

noun

ˈhaf-ˌmün 

ˈhäf-

1

: the moon when half its disk appears illuminated

2

: something shaped like a crescent

3

: the lunule of a fingernail

half-moon adjective

Examples of half-moon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This console table is great for smaller spaces, thanks to its half-moon design and storage shelves. — Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 6 May 2026

Pulling the focal point to the base of the nails, this manicure shades over the cuticle border with metallic blue half-moons. — Sunnah Rasheed, InStyle, 25 May 2026

This is because a half-moon is heavily shadowed, even on its illuminated half. — Joe Rao, Space.com, 22 May 2026

At the center of the abode is a circular, half-moon living room, anchored by a sculptural fireplace and with a small dining area off to the side. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 2 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for half-moon

• attune
• baboon
• balloon
• bassoon
• buffoon
• cartoon
• cocoon
• festoon
• gaboon
• harpoon
• immune
• impugn

Kids Definition

half-moon

noun

-ˌmün

: the moon when half its disk appears lighted

Medical Definition

half-moon

noun

-ˌmün 

: lunula sense a