semicentennial
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌsɛmɪsɛnˈtɛnɪəl/
KK: /sɛmɪsɛnˈtɛnɪəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or marking a period of fifty years, especially the 50th anniversary of an event.
Example
The town celebrated its semicentennial with a grand festival.
Conversation
Did you hear about the semicentennial celebration next month?
Yeah, it's hard to believe it's been fifty years already!
I know, right? We should definitely go and check it out together.
Absolutely! It'll be a great way to celebrate such a big milestone.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fiftieth
Antonyms
single
annual
centennial
noun
Definition
A celebration or event that marks the 50th anniversary of something.
Example
The town held a big party for its semicentennial celebration.
Conversation
Did you hear about the town's upcoming semicentennial celebration?
Yeah, it's hard to believe it's been fifty years since it was founded!
I can't wait to see all the events they have planned for the semicentennial.
Root Explanation
Semicentennial → It is formed from "semi-" (meaning half) and "centennial" (from Latin "centennium", meaning a hundred years). The word "semicentennial" refers to a period of fifty years, which is half of a hundred years.
Memory Tip
Think of 'semi-' meaning half and 'centennial' referring to a hundred years — so a semicentennial is a celebration of half a century.
Visually Confused Words
sesquicentennial
bicentennial
centennial
tricentennial
tercentennial