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Origin and Etymology of semi
short for semidetached
First Known Use: 1912
1942
First Known Use of semi
1942
Other Automotive Terms
1942
First Known Use of semi
1942
semi-
Definition of semi-
1a : precisely half of: (1) : forming a bisection of semidiameter (2) : being a usually vertically bisected form of (a specified architectural feature) semidomeb : half in quantity or value : half of or occurring halfway through a specified period of time semiannual semimonthly — compare bi-
2 : to some extent : partly : incompletely semicivilized semi-independent semidry — compare demi-, hemi-
3a : partial : incomplete semiconsciousness semidarknessb : having some of the characteristics of semiporcelainc : quasi- semigovernmental semimonastic
Origin and Etymology of semi-
Middle English, from Latin; akin to Old High German sāmi- half, Greek hēmi-
SEMI Defined for English Language Learners
semi-
Definition of semi- for English Language Learners
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: half
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: happening twice during a particular period of time
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: partly : not completely
SEMI- Defined for Kids
semi-
Definition of semi- for Students
1 : half semicircle
2 : partly : not completely
3 : partial
Learn More about semi
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See words that rhyme with semi Nglish: Translation of semi for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of semi for Arabic speakers
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