half-length

American  

[haf-lengkth, -length, -lenth, hahf-] / ˈhæfˌlɛŋkθ, -ˌlɛŋθ, -ˌlɛnθ, ˈhɑf- /

noun

1. something that is only half a full length or height, especially a portrait that shows only the upper half of the body, including the hands.

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adjective

1. of half the complete length or height.

half-length British  

adjective

1. (of a portrait) showing only the body from the waist up and including the hands

2. of half the entire or original length

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noun

1. a half-length portrait

Etymology

Origin of half-length

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

Although called a “Pietà,” it was not a depiction of Christ mourned by his intimates, but rather a “Man of Sorrows”—the dead Savior, half-length, with youthful angels—a timeless image designed for contemplation and meditation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

And he more than proved it on Saturday as Journalism put forth a furious stretch drive to win in the second leg of the Triple Crown by a half-length.

From Los Angeles Times • May 17, 2025

There was a further half-length back to Grangeclare West in third.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2025

Ruffian was ahead by a half-length when she changed leads and both jockeys heard a cracking sound.

From Washington Times • Jun. 1, 2023

Hopevale had drawn away still more, and then, as a half-length of open water showed between them and Clinton, the Clinton crew had at last begun to quicken in their turn.

From Dick Randall The Young Athlete by Clark, Ellery H.