An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

One of two equal or approximately equal parts of a divisible whole.

Etymology (EN): M.E., from O.E. h(e)alf “side, part,” from P.Gmc. *khalbas “something divided” (cf. M.Du. half, Ger. halb, Goth. halbs “half”).

Etymology (PE): Nim, nimé “half,” from Mid.Pers. nêm, nêmag “half;” Av. naēma- “half;” cf. Skt.. néma- “half.”