It can differ from network to network, but it means what it says really - the person is half of an operator :tongue:
Halfops (%) can voice others but not op others. Sometimes they are also able to change the topic and kick people rather than ban people, and change certain modes too. It's become quite popular because it gives people more responsibility and 'tools' without having so much they can take over a channel or do any damage. Some still see it as a 'vanity' mode though, like some of the ridiculous/useless ones certain IRCds have concocted recently.
Regards,
