half
UK[hɑːf]US[hæf]
n
Either of two equal or corresponding parts into which something is or can be divided.
n
A period of time equal to thirty minutes, or the point marking this time.
predeterminer
An amount equal to half of something.
adv
To the extent of half.
Etymology
The word 'half' originates from the Old English 'healf', which conveyed the sense of a "side" or "part" of something. This term evolved from the Proto-Germanic root 'halbaz', carrying the core meaning of something that is divided. The conceptual link is direct and enduring: from an ancient root denoting division, the modern English word retains the precise meaning of one of two equal parts. Its journey through the Germanic languages, notably Old English, preserved its simplicity and core logic without significant morphological alteration.
Analysis
The word 'half' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It derives from the Old English 'healf', meaning "side, part", which itself came from the Proto-Germanic 'halbaz' meaning "something divided". Its functional role is as a complete lexical root.
Examples
She cut the apple in half.
The game starts at half past seven.
The glass was half full.