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 Celtics led 39-28 at the halftime break and 57-49 at the end of the third quarter. — Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2026

At halftime on the field of play at the New York New Jersey Stadium, megawatt stars including Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, and Justin Bieber will take to the stage, co-signing a handful of designers. — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 16 July 2026

Adjective

So, after the first 48-team World Cup, one featuring hydration breaks at all matches, suspended bans, a half-time show in the final and countless other controversies, what are your suggestions for improvement? — The Athletic Uk Staff, New York Times, 22 July 2026

Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS and Shakira were among those who performed at the World Cup's first ever half-time show, which stretched the break out to more than 27 minutes, drawing criticism from commentators and fans. — Joseph Wilkins, CNBC, 20 July 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)