half-dozen

American  

[half-duhz-uhn, hahf-] / ˈhælfˈdʌz ən, ˈhɑf- /

noun

1. one half of a dozen; six.

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adjective

1. considering six as a unit; consisting of six.

half-dozen British  

determiner

1. (preceded by a)

   1. six or a group of six

      a half-dozen roses

   2. ( as pronoun; functioning as singular or plural )

      at least a half-dozen

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Etymology

Origin of half-dozen

late Middle English word dating back to 1375–1425

Example Sentences

It also spent more than $10 million on a half-dozen “Freedom Trucks,” rolling museums with interactive exhibits that are now circulating the country.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

Now, that system is being tested in a half-dozen waterways, comprising a vast portion of global trade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 11, 2026

In Israel, millions of people rushed to shelters as more than a half-dozen waves of Iranian attacks targeted large parts of the country.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

And nine women who started at least a half-dozen games last season aren’t there this year.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 15, 2026

There are only a half-dozen people in the car, their faces hidden behind the Globe, or looking down at paperback books, or staring straight through her, at nothing.

From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri