half-cup
UK[ˈhɑːf kʌp]US[ˈhæf kʌp]
n
A measurement equal to half of a standard cup, used in cooking and baking.
n
A container or vessel that holds this amount.
Morpheme Breakdown
half
cup
half
partial
cup
measure/container
Etymology
The compound word 'half-cup' is a straightforward combination of two native English elements. 'Half' originates from the Proto-Germanic halbaz, carrying the core sense of "partial" or "one side". 'Cup' traces back to Late Latin cuppa, meaning a small vessel, which entered the Germanic lexicon early. The logic of the compound is purely descriptive and functional, directly combining the quantifier 'half' with the unit/object 'cup' to denote either a precise volumetric measurement (half of a standard cup's capacity) or a physical container of that size. This transparent construction reflects its practical use in domestic contexts, particularly in recipes and kitchenware.
Analysis
Structure: half (partial) + cup (measure/container)
half: From Old English healf, meaning "side, part", functioning as a quantifier meaning one of two equal parts.
cup: From Old English cuppe, from Late Latin cuppa, meaning a drinking vessel or a unit of measure, functioning as the base noun.
Examples
Add a half-cup of sugar to the mixture.
She measured the flour using a plastic half-cup.
The recipe calls for one half-cup of milk and a full cup of flour.