Word of the day: CHRISTMAS

Pronunciation: Christ·mas UK/ˈkrɪs.məs/ US/ˈkrɪs.məs/

Meaning

‘Christmas’ refers to an annual festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25. It represents joy, hope, generosity, love, and togetherness.

Origin and history

The word Christmas comes from the Old English ‘Cristes mæsse,’ meaning ‘Christ's Mass,’ a service celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, merging Christ (from Greek ‘Khristos’, meaning anointed) and mass (from Latin ‘missa’, meaning Eucharist). It evolved from the 12th century, with earlier forms like ‘Crīstesmæsse’, and the abbreviation Xmas uses the Greek letter Chi (Χ) for Christ.

The term was first recorded in English around the 11th century.

Although the exact birth date of Jesus is unknown, December 25 was chosen to align with existing winter festivals and symbolise light overcoming darkness.

Cultural significance and modern usage

Christmas has evolved beyond a religious observance into a global cultural celebration.

Religious meaning: Marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian belief. Celebrated worldwide with decorations, lights, trees, music, and food. It is a time for family gatherings, kindness, charity, and reflection.

In modern usage, Christmas is a global cultural and commercial phenomenon that blends its Christian origins celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ with secular, family-orientated traditions and commercial activity. It is observed by Christians and non-Christians alike.

Interesting facts

  • In 17th-century England, Christmas celebrations were once banned by Puritans, who felt the festivities were excessive.
  • Christmas is celebrated in over 160 countries worldwide.
  • The tradition of decorating Christmas trees began in Germany.
  • Santa Claus was inspired by St. Nicholas, a generous 4th-century bishop.
  • “Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving, not Christmas.
  • In many cultures, Christmas is more about togetherness than gifts.

Examples from literature:

  • “So that Christmas Henry brought him home, into the house, and the demon looked up and saw the face he believed he had paid off and discharged twenty-eight years ago. Go on.”- Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner
  • Christmas was less than a week away, so naturally the mall would be a supremely unfun place to be, especially since everyone else seemed to have the same snow day idea. - The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller

Synonyms

  • Advent
  • Xmas
  • Nativity
  • Noel
  • Christmastime
  • Yule

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