half-court

noun

ˈhaf-ˈkȯrt How to pronounce half-court (audio)
ˈhäf-
: a dividing line that separates a playing court into equal halves (as in basketball)
also : the area comprising each half

Examples of half-court in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Lakers were swept by Chicago in their two-game series last season, including a wild 119-117 loss at the United Center on Josh Giddey's half-court shot at the buzzer. CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026 When the Magic miss a shot or don’t get a foul call in their favor, the team on occasion doesn’t get set in its half-court defense, which allows opponents to get easy baskets. Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2026 The Wolverines struggled against Sierra Canyon’s half-court trap and didn’t have enough offensive contributors with Sterling taken out of the game by the Trailblazers’ defense. Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2026 Both the Highlanders and Comanches settled into their half-court offenses on most possessions, having to work for every shot. Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 17 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for half-court

Word History

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of half-court was in 1926

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Cite this Entry

“Half-court.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/half-court. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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