Five common words featuring the prefix 'semi-' include semiannual, semiautomatic, semicircle, semifinal, and semiprivate.
The prefix "semi-" is derived from Latin and generally means "half" or "partly." It is frequently used to form new words that describe something that is partial, incomplete, or occurs at half intervals. Understanding this prefix can help in deciphering the meaning of many English words. For a comprehensive definition and more examples of words using this combining form, you can consult reputable sources like Dictionary.com.
Words with the Prefix 'Semi-'
Here is a breakdown of five words that utilize the prefix 'semi-', illustrating its common applications:
Word | Meaning |
---|---|
Semiannual | Occurring or payable twice in a year. |
Semiautomatic | Partially automatic; describes a firearm or machine that performs part of an operation automatically. |
Semicircle | Half of a circle. |
Semifinal | A game or round immediately preceding the final, involving the two winners of the quarterfinals or previous rounds. |
Semiprivate | Partially private; often refers to a room or hospital ward shared with one or more other people. |
These examples demonstrate how the 'semi-' prefix modifies the base word to convey a sense of partiality or division.