semiformal

American  

[sem-ee-fawr-muhl, sem-ahy-] / ˌsɛm iˈfɔr məl, ˌsɛm aɪ- /

adjective

1. partly formal; containing some formal elements.

   a semiformal occasion; semiformal attire.

---

Etymology

Origin of semiformal

First recorded in 1930–35; semi- + formal ¹

Example Sentences

Thought leadership: This isn’t a term that most of us would use, even in semiformal conversation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

The dress code was originally billed as semiformal, but, in line with the casual attire of startups, was later revised to “business casual but feel free to dress it up!”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2024

Dear Miss Manners: My brother and I went to a semiformal dinner where spaghetti was the main course.

From Washington Post • Aug. 16, 2022

SAT Dance to waltzes, jigs, swing and more with live music, dance performances, dessert buffet, no-host bar; festive semiformal to formal holiday wear, 8 p.m.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 1, 2016

I picture her long, straight hair falling over his shoulder as they slow danced at the winter semiformal, then touch my stubby ponytail of frizz.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison