half-holiday
Definition
Noun: A day, or more commonly a part of a day (such as an afternoon), on which one is free from work or duty, typically granted by an employer or institution. It is a holiday that lasts for only half of the normal working day.
Usage
A "half-holiday" is a specific period of authorized leave. It is often announced or scheduled in advance. * The office will close at noon on Friday for a half-holiday. * The headmaster declared a half-holiday for the school after the sports day events. * Employees were given a half-holiday on Christmas Eve.
Advanced Usage
- The term is somewhat formal and old-fashioned, more common in British English and in contexts like traditional schools, factories, or certain professions.
- It implies an official concession or grant of free time, rather than simply leaving work early by personal choice.
Variants and Related Words
- Half-day: A more common and modern synonym for "half-holiday," often used interchangeably. (e.g., "I'm taking a half-day on Friday.")
- Holiday: A full day or period of freedom from work.
- Leave: Permission to be absent from work or duty.
Synonyms
- Half-day
- Short day
Antonyms
- Full workday
- Overtime
Noun
-
a day on which half is free from work or duty
