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Semi: meaning, definitions and examples

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semi

 

[ ˈsɛmi ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

partial, half

The term 'semi' refers to something that is partial or half of a whole. It is often used as a prefix to denote that something is not complete or is in between two states.

Synonyms

half, incomplete, partial

Examples of usage

  • semi-automatic rifle
  • semi-final match
  • semi-circular shape
  • semi-retired professional
Context #2 | Noun

vehicle, truck

In the context of vehicles, a 'semi' often refers to a semi-trailer truck, which is a combination of a tractor unit and one or more semi-trailers to carry freight.

Synonyms

lorry, semi-trailer, truck

Examples of usage

  • The semi rolled down the highway.
  • He drives a semi for a living.
  • The load was too heavy for a standard truck, so they used a semi.
  • Locating the semi in the busy truck yard was challenging.

Translations

Translations of the word "semi" in other languages:

🇵🇹 semi

🇮🇳 अर्ध

🇩🇪 halb

🇮🇩 semi

🇺🇦 пів

🇵🇱 pół

🇯🇵 セミ

🇫🇷 semi

🇪🇸 semi

🇹🇷 yarı

🇰🇷 반

🇸🇦 نصف

🇨🇿 půl

🇸🇰 polovičný

🇨🇳 半

🇸🇮 pol

🇮🇸 hálf

🇰🇿 жарты

🇬🇪 ნახევარი

🇦🇿 yarım

🇲🇽 semi

Word origin

The term 'semi' originates from the Latin word 'semi-', meaning 'half' or 'partly'. This prefix was integrated into English in the 19th century as a way to denote a partial state or condition. Various forms of usage evolved, such as 'semi-final' in sports to describe a match that precedes the final, and 'semi-automatic' in firearms, describing a mechanism that automatically loads a new cartridge into the chamber, but requires a pull of the trigger for each shot. The use of 'semi' as a standalone noun to refer to semi-trailer trucks became popular in the mid-20th century, as trucking and logistics began to play a critical role in economies around the world.