: a woman's blouse or top that leaves the back, arms, and midriff bare and that is typically held in place by straps around the neck and across the back
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Noun
Throw it on over your swimsuit for a casual seaside lunch or to head from your hotel room to the pool—the halter neckline and low back are flattering and polished enough to wear at most resorts.—Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2026 The dress is crafted from silk georgette and includes leather trim for the halter straps.—Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 20 May 2026
Verb
The 27-piece collection plays into this mindset with adorable beach-to-street matching sets such as a cherry red boucle halter top and midi skirt or skin-baring layers in terry — a signature of Kondi’s label.—Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 23 June 2025 Old Navy Matte Tankini Swim Top $40 $20 at Old Navy
Old Navy’s Matte Tankini Swim Top boasts a complementary V-neck and halter top design that’s supportive and stylish.—Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for halter
Word History
Etymology
Noun
Middle English, from Old English hælftre; akin to Old High German halftra halter, Old English hielfe helve
First Known Use
Noun
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a