half dime

noun

1. a silver coin of the U.S., equal to five cents, issued 1794–1805 and 1829–73.

Word History and Origins

Origin of half dime¹

An Americanism dating back to 1785–95

Example Sentences

The little street-sweeper's arms ached fearfully, but his pocket was full of pennies, interspersed with an occasional half-dime.

From Project Gutenberg

Our Half-Dime packets of choice seed are planted by thousands in all parts of America.

From Project Gutenberg

At Coney, a dime will buy almost anything except what a half-dime will buy.

From Project Gutenberg

It came to pass that a certain half-dime blood-and-thunder182 pamphlet had a great vogue in the tribe at this particular time.

From Project Gutenberg

He transferred two more dimes and a half-dime from the drawer to the table.

From Project Gutenberg