halfpennyworth

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

From Middle English halpenyworth; equivalent to halfpenny +‎ worth; compare Old English healfpeniġweorþ.

Pronunciation[edit]

Noun[edit]

halfpennyworth (plural halfpennyworths) (abbreviation ha'p'orth)

  1. (UK) As much as could be bought for a halfpenny (pre- or post-decimalisation).
    Coordinate terms: pennyworth, tuppence worth
  2. (UK, informal) A negligible amount.
    Synonyms: pennyworth, tuppence worth; see also Thesaurus:modicum
    he's never been a ha'p'orth of bother
  3. (UK, informal) One's opinion or thoughts on a matter.
    Synonyms: pennyworth, tuppence worth; (US origin) two cents, two cents' worth

Usage notes[edit]

  • Also used in combination with larger amounts, as in "twopence halfpennyworth" (said "tuppence ha'penny's worth" and equal to as much as could be bought for two and a half pence).

References[edit]

  • New Oxford American Dictionary
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