halfday

Halfday, or half-day, refers to a time period that represents half of a day. In formal timekeeping, a day is typically divided into two equal halves of 12 hours each, so a half-day equals a 12-hour interval. In common usage, however, half-day commonly denotes a shortened schedule rather than a fixed 12-hour block, such as an abbreviated work shift or school session.

In practical contexts, half-day scheduling is common for events, shifts, and absences. A half-day work arrangement often means a shift shorter than a full workday, frequently around four to six hours depending on organizational policy. Schools and universities may implement early dismissal or afternoon-only classes described as a half-day. In some workplaces, half-day leave allows a portion of a regular workday off, often for personal or medical reasons.

Durations labeled as half-day vary by institution or country, so the term is relative rather than standardized. The concept is widely used in calendars, payroll, event planning, and travel itineraries to indicate partial-day timing. Because interpretations differ, it is common to specify the exact start and end times when planning or communicating half-day arrangements.

Etymology traces the term to the combination of “half” and “day,” reflecting the idea of dividing a 24-hour period into two equal parts. See also full day, daylight, and shift scheduling.