from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Moiety \Moi"e*ty\ (moi"[-e]*t[y^]), n.; pl. {Moieties}
(moi"[-e]*t[i^]z). [F. moiti['e], L. medietas, fr. medius
middle, half. See {Mid}, a., and cf. {Mediate}, {Mediety}.]
1. One of two equal parts; a half; as, a moiety of an estate,
of goods, or of profits; the moiety of a jury, or of a
nation. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
The more beautiful moiety of his majesty's subject.
--Addison.
[1913 Webster]
2. An indefinite part; a small part. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]