halftime
UK[ˌhɑːfˈtaɪm]US[ˌhæfˈtaɪm]
n
the short period of rest between two halves of a game such as football or basketball
n
a short period of entertainment, such as music or a performance, that takes place during this rest period in a game
Morpheme Breakdown
half
time
half
one of two equal parts
time
a measured period
Etymology
the word 'halftime' is a transparent compound formed from two native english elements. 'half', with its proto-germanic root halbaz, originally conveyed the idea of a 'side' or 'part', which evolved to specifically mean one of two equal divisions. 'time', from proto-germanic tīmô, refers to a measured or appointed period. when combined in the sporting context of the 19th century, the compound logically denotes the period marking the division of a game into two equal parts. its meaning later extended to include the entertainment interval that typically occurs during this break.
Analysis
Structure: half (one of two equal parts) + time (a measured period)
'half' is from old english 'healf', meaning 'side, part', and functions as a noun denoting one of two equal portions. 'time' is from old english 'tīma', meaning 'a limited space of time', and functions as a noun denoting a period or duration.
Examples
the players went to the locker room for a discussion at halftime.
the home team was leading by ten points at halftime.
the famous singer will perform during the super bowl halftime show.