half-zip

noun

ˈhaf-ˌzip 

ˈhäf-

variants or half zip

plural half-zips or half zips

: a pullover (such as a sweater or sweatshirt) with a zipper from the collar to the middle of the chest

… this half-zip with a nice big pocket is super versatile and good for layering, so you can wear it anywhere from walking the dog to running errands to the couch.

—Adrianna Brach, quoted at Today.com

While your first instinct may be to throw on a big sweatshirt … to stay warm during a chilly, early morning hike, stick with an active, form-fitting half zip.

—Elena Hart

—often used before another noun

This women's sweatsuit set includes a half-zip hoodie and high-waist sweatpants.

—Christopher Murray

compare quarter-zip

Examples of half-zip in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Shop comfy and sleek loungewear like straight-leg pants, half-zip sweatshirts, and full-zip track jackets that work for everything from couch lounging to everyday errands. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026

Crafted from cashmere, the brand’s distinctive material, the capsule comprises long-sleeve polo shirts, double-collar crewnecks, turtlenecks, ski sweaters, argyles, half-zips, bombers, a shawl cardigan and a knitted blazer. — Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 21 Sep. 2026

For example, this new Amazon set features a half-zip top and relaxed pants with striped detailing, adding a sporty-chic touch. — Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 16 Sep. 2026

As the video progressed, Paltrow unzipped a dark navy blue half-zip sweater, showing off a glimpse of a white T-shirt underneath. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 12 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above