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adjective Uncommon

demi

duh-MEE

Demi (adjective) means Half or partial, used as a combining element in compound words. Example: “The dancer wore demi-pointe shoes for the rehearsal.”

adjective
1
Half or partial, used as a combining element in compound words.
"The dancer wore demi-pointe shoes for the rehearsal."

How to use demi

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsed to mean "half" or "partly" when attached to another word, like demigod or demitasse.

Common pairings
demigod demi-glace demi-pointe

Word forms

more demi comparative, demis plural, most demi superlative

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The dancer wore _____-pointe shoes for the rehearsal.

Etymology

From French demi ("half"), from Latin dimidius.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for demi

See all rhymes for demi →

Frequently asked questions

What does “demi” mean?

The word “demi” means half or partial, used as a combining element in compound words. In plain terms, used to mean "half" or "partly" when attached to another word, like demigod or demitasse.

How do you pronounce “demi”?

“Demi” is pronounced duh-MEE (/dəˈmiː/ in IPA).

How do you use “demi” in a sentence?

Here is “demi” used in a sentence: “The dancer wore demi-pointe shoes for the rehearsal.”

What part of speech is “demi”?

“Demi” is an adjective.

Where does the word “demi” come from?

The word “demi” comes from Latin. From French demi ("half"), from Latin dimidius.

Is “demi” a common word?

“Demi” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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