half mourning

American  

noun

1. a mourning garb less somber than deep mourning, usually following a period of deep mourning.

2. the period during which it is worn.

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half-mourning British  

noun

1. dark grey clothes worn by some during a period after full formal mourning

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Etymology

Origin of half mourning

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Her husband sits on one end of the frilly sofa, half asleep from the long night, half mourning.

From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee

In deep mourning, woollen cloths only are worn; in ordinary mourning, silk and woollen; in half mourning, gray and violet.

From Manners and Social Usages by Sherwood, Mrs. John M. E. W.

In France, a widow wears deep mourning for her husband during a year, and half mourning during another year.

From Her Royal Highness Woman by O'Rell, Max

The new cravat comes when the new feathers grow in late summer; and, at first, it is barred with gray as if in half mourning for his sins.

From Woodland Tales by Seton, Ernest Thompson

There I sat down, finding a sad significance in the delicate suggestion of half mourning.

From In a German Pension by Mansfield, Katherine