halftime

1 of 2

noun

half·​time ˈhaf-ˌtīm 

ˈhäf-

: an intermission between halves of a game or contest (as in football or basketball)

half-time

2 of 2

adjective

ˈhaf-ˌtīm 

ˈhäf-

: involving or working half the standard hours

half-time adverb

Examples of halftime in a Sentence

Noun

The score was tied at halftime.

The coaches discussed strategy during halftime.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The banners were confiscated by stadium personnel just before halftime. —Henry Bushnell, New York Times, 16 June 2026

Now, Saudi Arabia is looking to keep its 1-0 lead, and possibly extend it, after halftime. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 16 June 2026

Adjective

Paul Breitner quickly equalised from the spot for the West Germans and then, just before half-time, Muller struck ruthlessly after controlling a cutback. —Will Jeanes, New York Times, 20 June 2026

Midfielder Declan Rice spoke glowingly of the halftime talk that helped spur England from a 2-2 tie at half-time to the 4-2 win, as the Three Lions roared out of the blocks in the second half. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 19 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1865, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1861, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for halftime

• airtime
• bedtime
• daytime
• downtime
• enzyme
• lifetime
• longtime
• lunchtime
• mealtime
• meantime
• nighttime
• noontime

Kids Definition

halftime

noun

half·​time ˈhaf-ˌtīm 

ˈhȧf-

: an intermission marking the completion of half of a game (as in football)