half-pint
UK[ˌhɑːf ˈpaɪnt]US[ˌhæf ˈpaɪnt]
n
a unit of liquid measure equal to half a pint
n
(informal) a small or insignificant person or thing
Morpheme Breakdown
half
pint
half
one of two equal parts
pint
Etymology
the compound 'half-pint' is a straightforward english formation, combining the old english term 'half' with the unit of measurement 'pint', which entered english via old french from the latin 'pincta', meaning a marked liquid measure. its literal meaning as a specific volume measure is transparent. the informal, often humorous or derogatory sense of 'a small person' emerged through metaphorical extension, comparing a person's stature or importance to a small quantity of liquid. this evolution showcases a common pattern where a concrete measurement term acquires a figurative, character-descriptive meaning.
Analysis
Structure: half + pint
half (old english, meaning 'one of two equal parts'); pint (old french, from latin 'pincta', a liquid measure)
Examples
he ordered a half-pint of ale at the pub.
don't let that half-pint push you around; he's all talk.
the recipe calls for a half-pint of heavy cream.