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Definition of semiannual

semiannual

/ˌsɛmiˈænjuəl/
sem · i · an · nu · al
Adverb:semiannually
•
Plural:semiannuals
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semiannual Lexical Profile

semiannual Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Occurring, published, or payable twice each year; happening every six months.

Example

"The board of directors scheduled a semiannual review to evaluate the company's progress."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for semiannual

• noun

1

A periodical, journal, or other publication issued twice a year.

Example

"The university press launched a literary semiannual featuring essays and poetry from emerging writers."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for semiannual

Word Nuance & Usage

'Semiannual' is preferred over 'biannual' for events occurring twice a year, because 'biannual' is frequently confused with 'biennial' (which means occurring once every two years).

• Rhymes for semiannual

• Nearby Words

semeru
semester
semi
semiannual
semiannually
semiaquatic
semiarid

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century by combining the Latin prefix 'semi-' (half) with 'annual', from Latin 'annualis' (yearly), derived from 'annus' (year).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Semiannual. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/semiannual
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