christmas - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
christmas Word Meanings
- the annual festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25
- the Christmas season, the period around Christmas with decorations, gift giving, and holidays
- the spirit of generosity and festivity associated with the holiday, as in the Christmas spirit
christmas Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
christmas Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkrɪs.məs/
US
/ˈkrɪs.məs/
christmas Word Etymology
Root decomposition: Christ + mass. Historical origin: From Latin Christus, via Greek Khristos; Old French Cristesmesse, then English Christmas. Memory image: Picture a church doorway with a Christ statue and the Mass bells transforming into twinkling Christmas lights.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Christmas is a major holiday in many countries, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. In everyday use, the word can refer to the religious observance as well as to the broader season of worship, gift-giving, food, and family time that surrounds the holiday. People decorate homes with lights and trees, attend church services, and exchange presents. The phrase 'the Christmas spirit' is used to describe generosity, kindness, and a festive mood that some people try to carry into daily life. In different cultures, customs vary widely, from Christmas markets in Europe to family feasts in the Americas and Asia. The word also appears in phrases like Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Christmas is capitalized when referring to the holiday.
- 2) It can mean the day or the season; watch context.
- 3) Use 'the Christmas spirit' for generosity and goodwill.
- 4) Xmas is common but not universal in formality.
- 5) Distinguish Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in timing and activities.
Common Misconceptions
- Christmas is only a religious holiday.
- All celebrations happen on December 25.
- 'Xmas' is always disrespectful or incorrect.
- No festive traditions exist outside Western countries.
- The Christmas season ends on Christmas Day.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, Christmas is both a proper noun and a broad seasonal concept; learners often worry about capitalization, the use of Xmas, and distinguishing Christmas Day from the Christmas season.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas season.
- Capitalize Christmas consistently as a proper noun.
- Know common phrases: the Christmas spirit, Christmas trees, Christmas market.
- Recognize that Xmas is informal and more common in writing or casual speech.
- Differentiate Christmas from other winter holidays your region may celebrate.
- Practice sentences with both 'on Christmas' (date) and 'during Christmas' (season).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'christmas'?
A.A holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
B.A type of fruit grown in winter.
C.A common greeting exchanged in spring.
D.A festival of colors in autumn.
Step 2: Usage
Identify the sentence that correctly uses the word 'christmas'.
A.The family decorated their home for christmas.
B.She always enjoyed reading christmas stories in July.
C.He gave her a christmas gift on her birthday.
D.Everyone feels happy during christmas in April.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'christmas'?
A.burial
B.holiday
C.homework
D.driving
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'christmas'?
A.celebration
B.festival
C.ordinary day
D.tradition
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'christmas' fits?
A.People exchange gifts during their summer holidays.
B.Many families come together to celebrate traditions in December.
C.Students often study for exams during the festive season.
D.Some enjoy decorating homes for Halloween celebrations.
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