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Festival Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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festival

[หˆfษ›stษชvษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cultural event

A festival is a special occasion, often in the form of a public event or celebration, that focuses on a specific aspect of culture, such as music, food, or art. Festivals are usually organized by a community or group to mark an important time of year, religious event, or historical milestone.

Synonyms

celebration, event, gathering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
festival

Used for large, often public, events that usually last for several days and celebrate a particular theme or cultural aspect.

  • The city hosts a music festival every summer
  • The film festival attracts visitors from all over the world
celebration

Used for a joyful occasion marking a special event or holiday, often involving festivities such as parties or dinners.

  • We had a big celebration for her birthday
  • The holiday season celebration was filled with joy and laughter
event

A broad term for any planned public or social occasion, which can range from formal to informal gatherings, including meetings, concerts, and sports matches.

  • The charity event raised a lot of money
  • She is attending a corporate event this weekend
gathering

Used for more informal meetings of people, typically smaller in scale and more personal, such as family get-togethers or social meetups.

  • We are having a family gathering this Sunday
  • The gathering of old friends brought back many memories

Examples of usage

  • The annual music festival attracts thousands of attendees from around the world.
  • The film festival showcases the work of up-and-coming filmmakers.
  • During the harvest festival, people gather to celebrate the abundance of crops.
  • Attending a cultural festival is a great way to learn about different traditions.
  • The festival atmosphere was filled with music, laughter, and excitement.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'festival' comes from the Latin 'festivus,' which means 'of a feast' or 'feasting.'
  • Festivals have been celebrated since ancient times, often related to seasonal changes like harvests or religious observances.
  • The earliest known festivals date back to ancient Mesopotamia, where people celebrated the new year with rituals and festivities.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, festivals are an important way to preserve traditions and bring communities together.
  • Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and is celebrated by millions worldwide.
  • Carnival, especially in Brazil, involves massive parades and colorful costumes, reflecting local culture and history.

Music and Arts

  • Music festivals, such as Coachella, gather thousands of music lovers to enjoy live performances across diverse genres.
  • Art festivals provide platforms for artists to showcase their work, enhancing community engagement and appreciation of the arts.
  • The Edinburgh Festival is recognized as the world's largest arts festival, hosting thousands of performances each August.

Psychology

  • Participating in festivals can enhance social bonds, contributing to a sense of belonging and community.
  • Celebratory events are linked to increased happiness and can reduce stress, promoting overall well-being.
  • Sharing experiences during festivals can strengthen relationships among participants, fostering connections and joy.

Modern Trends

  • In recent years, many festivals have adopted sustainability practices to minimize their environmental impact.
  • Food festivals have gained popularity, showcasing local cuisines and encouraging culinary exploration.
  • Virtual festivals have emerged, especially during the pandemic, allowing global participation through online platforms.

Origin of 'festival'

The word 'festival' originated from the Latin word 'festivus', meaning festive or joyous. Festivals have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, serving as occasions for communities to come together, celebrate, and commemorate important events. From ancient religious ceremonies to modern music and arts festivals, these gatherings play a significant role in preserving traditions and fostering social connections.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,678 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.