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

Dress down the sculptural denim with trendy outerwear like a funnel-neck jacket or half-zip. — India Roby, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2026

Chunky, oversized hoodies and cardigans are also giving way to more streamlined silhouettes, from half-zip pullovers to mockneck sweaters that feel just as soft but look way more put together. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2026

Our selections include gift ideas under $50, like quick-drying performance half-zips or customizable book weights from Quince and Leatherology. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 2026

Pinspark Two-Piece Half-Zip Lounge Set This half-zip’s mockneck collar feels elevated and gives it a rich-girl look. — Anna Traver, InStyle, 20 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above