semi-erect

adjective

ˌse-mē-ə-ˈrekt How to pronounce semi-erect (audio)
ˌse-ˌmī-,
-mi-
variants or less commonly semierect
1
: incompletely upright in bodily posture
semi-erect primates
2
: erect for half the length
semi-erect stems

Examples of semi-erect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The visual field of each print is almost entirely taken up by spread legs, muscled bellies, erect or semi-erect penises, yielding buttocks, and hands in motion. Richard Meyer, Artforum, 1 Feb. 2025 Blackberries are commonly categorized into three groups according to their growth habit: erect, semi-erect, and trailing plants. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 20 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of semi-erect was in 1822

Dictionary Entries Near semi-erect

Cite this Entry

“Semi-erect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/semi-erect. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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