halve

[hav, hahv]

verb (used with object)

halved, halving 

1. to divide into two equal parts.

2. to share equally.

   to halve one's rations with a stranger.

3. to reduce to half.

4. Golf.,  to play (a hole, round, or match) in the same number of strokes as one's opponent.

halve

/ hɑːv /

verb

1. to divide into two approximately equal parts

2. to share equally

3. to reduce by half, as by cutting

4. golf to take the same number of strokes on (a hole or round) as one's opponent

Other Word Forms

• unhalved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of halve¹

1250–1300; Middle English halven, derivative of half

Word History and Origins

Origin of halve¹

Old English hielfan; related to Middle High German helben; see _half

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. halve together, to join (two pieces of wood) by cutting from one, at the place of joining, a portion fitting to that left solid in the other.

Example Sentences

In response to the BBC's findings, the government told us it has a "mission to halve knife crime" and "schools have the power to implement security measures, including knife arches, where necessary".

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The number of Liberal Democrat party members has almost halved in the last five years, according to BBC analysis of available figures.

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The government has unveiled major housing market reform plans which will aim to cut costs, reduce delays and halve failed sales.

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Lowry, from eight feet, had a chance to win the hole, halve the match and reach the 14 points Europe needed as holders to retain the trophy.

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Salaries have been halved, and some staff ordered to work only two days a week.

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