semiquincentennial

American  

[sem-ee-kwin-sen-ten-ee-uhl, sem-ahy-] / ˌsɛm iˌkwɪn sɛnˈtɛn i əl, ˌsɛm aɪ- /

noun

1. a 250th anniversary or its celebration.

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adjective

1. relating to a 250th anniversary or its celebration.

2. lasting or having lasted 250 years; 250 years old.

Explanation

Semiquincentennial is a very long word for a very big anniversary — 2026 is the semiquincentennial, or 250th anniversary, of the United States. Semiquincentennial derives from the Latin words semi, "half," quinque, "five," and centum, "one hundred." You don't need this word very often, since it's rare that a country, building, or organization marks its 250th anniversary, but when you do, it's a big deal. The British Parliament celebrated its semiquincentennial in 1957, and the Taj Mahal was built in 1648, which means its semiquincentennial happened back in 1898.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

semiquincentennial

Racers will lap the National Mall 147 times for a total travel distance of 250 miles, a nod to the semiquincentennial.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 23, 2026

This series is designed “to inspire and motivate Americans” to travel during the country’s semiquincentennial celebration, never mind the astronomical gas prices.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026

The choreographer marked the nation’s semiquincentennial and his troupe’s 45th anniversary with a program at the Joyce Theater of repertory classics and a New York premiere all centered on American music.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 28, 2026

Freedom 250 is a Trump administration initiative to promote the country’s semiquincentennial.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 6, 2026

The official semiquincentennial parade down Constitution Avenue is led not by military armor but by marching bands from the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

From Salon ● Jul. 4, 2026

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