Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkrɪs·məs/

Definitions

• 1. A Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25th.
• 2. A season of celebration, typically associated with gift-giving, feasts, and various cultural traditions.
• 3. The period surrounding December 25th, often considered a time for family gatherings and festive events.

Usage Examples

• We decorate the Christmas tree with lights and ornaments every year.
• He spent Christmas with his family in the countryside.
• Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and giving to others.

Etymology

The word "Christmas" originates from Old English "Cristes mæsse," meaning "Christ's Mass," referring to the Christian mass or service held to celebrate the birth of Christ. The term has evolved to encompass not only the religious observance but also the secular and cultural celebrations associated with the holiday season.

Synonyms

• Yuletide
• Holiday
• Festivity
• Christmas season
• Xmas

Antonyms

• Workday
• Ordinary day
• Non-holiday

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, Christmas is pronounced with a more neutral "i" sound.
• In American English, the pronunciation has a slight emphasis on the second syllable, with the "mas" sounding more like "muhs".
• In French, "Noël" is a more common term, especially in religious contexts.

Historical Usage

The word "Christmas" has been used for centuries to describe the Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It has roots in Old English and has evolved from religious observances to become a widely celebrated cultural event, marked by gift-giving, decorations, and family gatherings. In medieval Europe, Christmas was a time for feasts and religious services, and its modern forms were shaped by traditions that developed in the 19th century, such as the Christmas tree and Santa Claus.

Cultural Nuances

While Christmas is a Christian holiday, it has taken on a variety of meanings in different cultures. In many Western countries, it is a time for family reunions, shopping, and exchanging gifts. In some non-Christian cultures, it is still celebrated as a secular holiday, focusing on the themes of generosity and goodwill. In countries like Japan, Christmas is not a public holiday, but it is often celebrated as a romantic holiday, with couples going out for dinner or exchanging gifts.

More Information

Christmas has both religious and secular significance. For Christians, it marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is a time of spiritual reflection, worship, and charity. For others, it is a cultural and commercial holiday characterized by decorations, shopping, and festive meals. In many parts of the world, Christmas serves as a time to spend with family, exchange gifts, and enjoy holiday festivities. Over the years, the holiday has become more inclusive, with people of different faiths and backgrounds taking part in the celebrations in various ways.