Definition

An exam that takes place in the middle of an academic term or a political term.

Example

I have a midterm exam next week in my math class.

Conversation

Are you ready for the upcoming midterm?

Not really, I still have so much to study.

I know, right? It feels like the midterm came up so fast this year.

Totally! We should study together to help each other out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Midterm → It is formed from "mid-" (meaning middle) and "term" (from Latin "terminus", meaning boundary or limit). The word "midterm" refers to the middle point of a term or period, often used in academic contexts to denote exams or evaluations that occur halfway through a course.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'middle' ('mid-') of a 'term' — that's why midterm refers to the exams or evaluations that happen in the middle of an academic term.

Visually Confused Words