midlength

Midlength, often written as mid-length, is a general descriptor used to denote an intermediate length between short and long forms. The exact threshold varies by domain, but the term signals a middle range rather than a precise measurement. It can apply to physical dimensions, duration, or narrative and stylistic choices.

In hair styling, midlength refers to hair that falls around the shoulders or collarbone. This length is longer than short styles like pixie cuts but shorter than long, flowing lengths. Care and styling often focus on layering, texture, and easy maintenance to preserve shape and movement.

In fashion and apparel, mid-length garments typically reach around the knee or mid-calf, or otherwise sit between mini and maxi lengths. Mid-length silhouettes are valued for versatility and ease of wear across different seasons and occasions, with fabric weight and drape influencing the desired look.

In film, video, and media, midlength can describe works that sit between short films and features. Festivals may classify mid-length programs as roughly 30 to 60 minutes, though exact definitions vary by event. The term can also appear in cinematography to denote certain shot lengths, though this usage is less common than conventional terms like short, medium, or long.

In publishing and storytelling, midlength narratives are texts longer than short stories but shorter than novels. Publishers and librarians sometimes use terms such as novella or novelette to describe specific word-count ranges, with midlength serving as a more general umbrella for works that do not fit the standard short-to-novel spectrum.