half-moon

noun

ˈhaf-ˌmün How to pronounce half-moon (audio)
ˈhäf-
1
: the moon when half its disk appears illuminated
2
: something shaped like a crescent
3
: the lunule of a fingernail
half-moon adjective

Examples of half-moon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In them, John Lithgow is seen for the first time as Dumbledore, Hogwarts' headmaster, with the signature waist-length, wispy white beard, oversized robes and half-moon spectacles resting on the tip of his nose. Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 9 Oct. 2025 What to order at a Mexican bakery: 9 must-try Pan dulce Empanada Unlike the common half-moon shape, pan dulce empanadas often come in a triangle form with their dough folded neatly over fruity fillings. Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 1 Oct. 2025 Gerber's nails were a long almond shape with a neutral base color and only the subtlest whisper of a white half-moon shape at the tip for a blink-and-you'll-miss-it hint of color. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 2 Sep. 2025 The bed’s half-moon silhouette is elegant and the perfect space-saving design for tighter gardens or patios. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for half-moon

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of half-moon was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Half-moon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/half-moon. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

half-moon

noun
-ˌmün
: the moon when half its disk appears lighted

Medical Definition

half-moon

noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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