semiannual

[ sem-ee-an-yoo-uhl, sem-ahy- ]

adjective

1. Also . occurring, done, or published every half year or twice a year; biannual.
2. lasting for half a year:

   a semiannual plant.

semiannual

/ ˌsɛmɪˈænjʊəl /

adjective

1. occurring every half-year
2. lasting for half a year

Confusables Note

See bi- ¹.

Derived Forms

• ˌsemiˈannually, adverb

Other Words From

• semi·annu·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of semiannual¹

First recorded in 1785–95; semi- + annual

Example Sentences

Now we are treated to the semiannual spectacle of watching Republicans pretend they care about the deficit.

From The Daily Beast

"I was merely quoting from the auditor's semiannual report, of which that is a summary," he said, indicating the folded paper.

From Project Gutenberg

He has had steady two-quarts-a-day men, and men who were subject only to semiannual debauches.

From Project Gutenberg

It holds semiannual meetings in connection with the National Association, but is not a department of said Association.

From Project Gutenberg

But the day after Christmas he came to the office early to get his semiannual check and cash it.

From Project Gutenberg

No job about the farm was so much disliked by the farmer and his boys as the semiannual removal of the stove.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• biannual