Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Halve Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

➗
Add to dictionary

halve

[hæv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

division action

To halve something means to divide it into two equal parts. This action can be applied to quantities such as numbers, amounts of food, or any objects that can be split in half.

Synonyms

bifurcate, divide, reduce, split.

Examples of usage

  • Please halve the cake before serving.
  • He decided to halve his daily calorie intake.
  • The recipe calls for halving the ingredients for a smaller portion.
  • If we halve the budget, it will impact the project's scope.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Halving is a fundamental concept in mathematics, often used in division and fractions.
  • In geometry, halving shapes is essential for calculating area and can help solve problems involving symmetry.
  • The concept of halving can also apply to numbers, such as 'half of 10 is 5'.

Culinary Arts

  • Many recipes instruct to halve ingredients, particularly for portion control or when scaling up or down.
  • Halving fruits like melons or cucumbers can make them easier to eat or serve at parties.
  • In baking, knowing how to halve quantities accurately is crucial for achieving the right consistency and flavor.

Psychology

  • Halving can impact decision-making, as breaking down choices into smaller parts often makes them easier to handle.
  • The 'halving effect' can also relate to how people perceive risks and rewards in financial decisions.
  • Studies show that when people halve their tasks, they often feel less overwhelmed and more capable of completing them.

Culture

  • Halving is used in many cultures as a practice for sharing food during meals, symbolizing community and generosity.
  • The phrase 'to halve the load' is often used in daily life, suggesting teamwork and collaboration.
  • In folklore, stories often incorporate the idea of halving as a means to teach sharing and fairness.

Origin of 'halve'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'halve' comes from the Old English 'healfian', which means to make half.
  • It shares roots with the word 'half', which has been used in English since the 13th century.
  • The pronunciation features a long 'a' sound, linking it closely to the noun 'half', making it memorable.

The word 'halve' originates from the Old English term 'healf', meaning 'half'. This term has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word '*halwaz', which also refers to half or a part of something. Over the centuries, 'halve' has maintained the same fundamental meaning, illustrating the concept of dividing an entity into equal parts. In Middle English, the verb evolved as 'halven', which later transitioned into its modern form. The simplicity and practicality of the concept of halving have made it an enduring and essential aspect of everyday language, particularly in contexts involving measurements, cooking, and resource allocation. Its use has been recorded in various texts throughout history, indicating its significance in both verbal communication and written language.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,746, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.