half mourning

noun

1. a mourning garb less somber than deep mourning, usually following a period of deep mourning.
2. the period during which it is worn.

half-mourning

noun

1. dark grey clothes worn by some during a period after full formal mourning

Word History and Origins

Origin of half mourning¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

There I sat down, finding a sad significance in the delicate suggestion of half mourning.

From Project Gutenberg

She was dressed in black, a sort of half mourning, I judged.

From Project Gutenberg

In France, a widow wears deep mourning for her husband during a year, and half mourning during another year.

From Project Gutenberg

He dresses in half-mourning always, and never wears any jewelry, but strictly shuns all society, and prefers uncivilized regions.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Carlyle came down next; and then Lady Isabel entered, in an elegant half-mourning dress, with flowing black ribbons.

From Project Gutenberg