Xmas: meaning, definitions and examples
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Xmas
[ [ˈɛksməs] ]
holiday celebration
Xmas is an abbreviation for Christmas, a Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25. It has become a cultural holiday celebrated by many people, regardless of religious affiliation, often characterized by gift-giving, family gatherings, and various festive traditions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We decorate the tree every Xmas season.
- Xmas lights adorn homes throughout the neighborhood.
- Many families gather for a big dinner on Xmas Eve.
Etymology
The term 'Xmas' is derived from the word 'Christmas', which combines the Greek letter 'Χ' (Chi) representing 'Christ' and the word 'mas,' which means 'mass' in Old English. The abbreviation has been used since at least the 16th century, although it gained more popularity during the 19th century. It was initially introduced by religious scholars who sought to simplify the term while retaining its original meaning. The use of 'X' to represent Christ can be traced back to early Christian writings, as 'Χ' is the first letter of 'Christos' in Greek. While some purists criticize the abbreviation for stripping the celebration of its religious significance, 'Xmas' has become a common term in contemporary culture, encompassing not just the religious aspects, but also the broader cultural celebrations associated with the holiday season.