Birthday: meaning, definitions and examples

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birthday

 

[ˈbɜːθ.deɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

celebration

The anniversary of the day on which a person was born, typically involving the giving of gifts, the sending of cards, and the enjoyment of a party or meal.

Synonyms

anniversary, celebration.

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Word Description / Examples
birthday

It refers to the annual celebration of the day someone was born. Mostly used in personal and informal contexts, often involving family and friends.

  • We are throwing a big party for John's birthday next week.
  • Did you get an invitation to Mary's birthday celebration?
anniversary

It is used to commemorate the date of a significant event that occurred in the past, like a wedding, the founding of a company, or another important event. This term can be used both in personal and formal contexts.

  • They are celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary this weekend.
  • The company is planning a grand event for its 50th anniversary.
celebration

A broad term referring to any event or activity designed to honor or enjoy a special occasion. This can be used in various contexts, including birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and other significant milestones.

  • The town is having a grand celebration for the national holiday.
  • The graduation celebration lasted all night.

Examples of usage

  • Her birthday is next week.
  • We are having a birthday party for him.
Context #2 | Noun

age

The day of a person's birth or the anniversary of that day.

Synonyms

date of birth, natal day.

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Word Description / Examples
birthday

Commonly used to refer to the anniversary of the day someone's life began. Appropriate in casual, informal, and formal settings.

  • It's my birthday today! Happy birthday, Sarah!

Examples of usage

  • He never celebrates his birthday.
  • On my birthday, I like to reflect on the past year.
Context #3 | Noun

cake

A cake made to celebrate someone's birthday, typically with candles on top representing the person's age.

Synonyms

cake, celebratory cake.

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Word Description / Examples
birthday

Use this word to refer to the anniversary of someone's birth. It is commonly used to describe the occasion or the day itself.

  • We are planning a big party for Janet's birthday.
  • My birthday is on the 5th of September.
cake

Use this word when referring to a sweet baked good that is often served on special occasions. It is a general term and can be used for all types of cakes, not just those for birthdays.

  • She baked a delicious chocolate cake.
  • Would you like some cake for dessert?
celebratory cake

Use this phrase when referring to a cake made specifically to celebrate an occasion. It implies a special or festive reason for the cake, such as a birthday, anniversary, or achievement celebration.

  • We ordered a celebratory cake for the office party.
  • The team enjoyed a celebratory cake after the successful project completion.

Examples of usage

  • She baked a birthday cake for her friend.
  • The children blew out the candles on the birthday cake.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first recorded birthday celebration dates back to ancient Egypt, where pharaohs celebrated their coronation day, which was considered their real 'birth' into godhood.
  • In ancient Rome, only prominent figures like soldiers and statesmen had public birthday parties, while regular citizens kept the event private.
  • The modern custom of celebrating birthdays began in Germany during the late Middle Ages with children's birthday parties called 'Kinderfest'.

Cultural Traditions

  • In Mexico, a girl’s 15th birthday, known as a 'Quinceañera', is a significant celebration representing her transition into womanhood.
  • In many Asian cultures, turning one year old is celebrated on Lunar New Year, not on the actual birth date.
  • The song 'Happy Birthday to You' was composed in the late 19th century, and today it is one of the most recognized songs globally.

Psychology

  • Studies show that celebrating birthdays can enhance a person's sense of belonging and happiness, fostering social bonds with family and friends.
  • Milestone birthdays, like turning 18 or 50, often lead individuals to reflect on their life achievements and future goals.
  • Celebrating birthdays helps reinforce personal identity and promotes a positive perception of aging.

Modern Context

  • Digital age technology allows people to celebrate birthdays virtually, using social media platforms to connect with friends and family globally.
  • The greeting card industry sees a significant spike in sales around birthday seasons, as many people send cards to convey well wishes.
  • With the rise of online shopping, personalized birthday gifts have become increasingly popular, allowing for more thoughtful celebrations.

Translations

Translations of the word "birthday" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aniversário

🇮🇳 जन्मदिन

🇩🇪 Geburtstag

🇮🇩 ulang tahun

🇺🇦 день народження

🇵🇱 urodziny

🇯🇵 誕生日

🇫🇷 anniversaire

🇪🇸 cumpleaños

🇹🇷 doğum günü

🇰🇷 생일

🇸🇦 عيد ميلاد

🇨🇿 narozeniny

🇸🇰 narodeniny

🇨🇳 生日

🇸🇮 rojstni dan

🇮🇸 afmæli

🇰🇿 туған күн

🇬🇪 დაბადების დღე

🇦🇿 ad günü

🇲🇽 cumpleaños