as in formal
US
appropriate for wearing to an event of moderate formality
She wore a semiformal gown to the wedding.
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Recent Examples of semiformal
The best maxi cocktail dresses can be worn for semiformal and formal occasions, from dinner dates to black-tie soirées.
—
Kristina Rutkowski,
Glamour,
10 Dec. 2025
Two Kabuki performers, Denjiro Tanaka and Hayato Nakamura, wore semiformal black ensembles from Goldwin during the performance.
—
Tianwei Zhang,
Footwear News,
14 Nov. 2025
But don’t worry, ladies, Mel is wearing some semiformal recovery slip-ons.
—
Ali Barthwell,
Vulture,
25 Sep. 2025
Kristina Rutkowski,
Glamour,
10 Dec. 2025
Two Kabuki performers, Denjiro Tanaka and Hayato Nakamura, wore semiformal black ensembles from Goldwin during the performance.
—
Tianwei Zhang,
Footwear News,
14 Nov. 2025
But don’t worry, ladies, Mel is wearing some semiformal recovery slip-ons.
—
Ali Barthwell,
Vulture,
25 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for semiformal
Adjective
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Fireworks from formal rocket shows to impromptu street celebrations can create extremely unhealthy air quality, sometimes rivaling what comes from wildfires.
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The impression was bolstered Friday afternoon when dozens of A-list celebrities were seen heading into the venue in formal wear, from Karlie Kloss and Hugh Grant to Jason Sudeikis and Chris Jones.
Adjective
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Those managing blood sugar may need fewer carbs, while athletes might need more; consult a healthcare provider or dietitian for tailored guidance.
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The pants are designed with a high waistline for ample coverage around the tummy, a tailored silhouette, and cuffed hems for a crisp clean look that’ll take you from the office to after-work cocktail hour.
Cite this Entry
“Semiformal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/semiformal. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
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