half note

noun

, Music.

1. a note equivalent in time value to one half of a whole note; minim.

half-note

noun

1. a note having the time value of half a semibreve Also calledminim

Word History and Origins

Origin of half note¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

The suspension, instead of being sustained as a half-note, may be repeated on the second quarter, as at c.

From Project Gutenberg

For the present the suspension should not be less than a half-note or its rhythmic equivalent in the ornamental resolution.

From Project Gutenberg

Every musician understands this principle: it requires longer to sing a half note than it does an eighth note.

From Project Gutenberg

But if a man may falter, shall we not forgive to a trombone even a half-note?

From Project Gutenberg

A flat may be made in one stroke, but is very apt to look like a half note.

From Project Gutenberg