Easter

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈiːstər/

Definitions

• Noun: A Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, typically observed on the first Sunday after the full moon following the vernal equinox.
• Noun: The season or period surrounding the Easter holiday, including Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.
• Noun: A feast or celebration associated with Easter, often marked by special meals, religious services, and festivities.

Usage Examples

• "Easter is celebrated by millions of Christians around the world."
• "The children were excited to search for Easter eggs."
• "Easter services were held in the church on Sunday morning."

Etymology

The word "Easter" comes from the Old English word "ēastre," which is believed to be named after a pagan festival celebrating the spring equinox, dedicated to the goddess Eostre. The term was later adapted by early Christians to mark the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Synonyms

• Pascha (in the Eastern Orthodox Church)
• Resurrection Sunday
• Holy Week (referring to the period surrounding Easter)

Antonyms

• Good Friday (a day commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ)
• Ascension (referring to the ascent of Jesus to heaven, which occurs after Easter)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "Easter" is pronounced with a shorter "a" sound (/ˈiːstə/), while in American English, it is pronounced with a slightly more emphasized "a" (/ˈiːstər/).
• In some South Asian dialects, the word "Easter" is pronounced more phonetically as "Istār" (/īstar/), reflecting the local language's influence.

Historical Usage

The term "Easter" has been used in English since the 8th century, originating from Old English and connected to the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre. Over time, it evolved to mark the Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The date of Easter has varied throughout history, influenced by the lunar calendar and the timing of the Spring equinox.

Cultural Nuances

Easter is celebrated with different traditions around the world. In Western Christian traditions, it often involves church services, feasts, and the exchange of Easter eggs. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Easter is celebrated with a focus on religious rituals and a communal feast. In some cultures, such as in the United States and parts of Europe, Easter has become a secular holiday with focus on activities like egg hunts and festive meals.

More Information

Easter is a major Christian holiday observed worldwide, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is preceded by Lent, a period of fasting and reflection, and followed by Pentecost. Easter's date varies each year but generally falls between March 22 and April 25. It has both religious and secular significance, with religious observances, parades, and family gatherings. In addition to its Christian roots, many pre-Christian customs, such as the Easter Bunny and egg decoration, have been incorporated into modern-day celebrations.