december - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
december Word Meanings
- the twelfth month of the year
- the last month of the calendar year
- often associated with winter holidays
december Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
december Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈsɛmbə/
US
/dɪˈsɛmbər/
december Word Etymology
From Latin 'december', meaning 'tenth month' (decem = ten). Originated from Latin to Old French, then to English. Imagine the Roman calendar where December was the 10th month, leading to festive celebrations as year-end approaches.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the corner of a wall calendar and move the page until December sits in view. The air feels cooler and the days shorten, and I adjust plans, pushing some tasks toward the holidays. I hold onto small rituals and let the season's last-month rhythm guide what I set in motion.
Real Context
December marks the end of the calendar year in many regions and is when days grow shorter and winter begins in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a month full of holidays, planning, and reflections as people prepare for the new year. In English, December is a noun used to name the month, as in "in December" or "this December." The name comes from Latin decem, meaning ten, reminder that the ancient Roman calendar placed December as the tenth month. Learners should note capitalization and the common prepositional patterns that go with month names.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: capitalized month names; use in/this with months; December often pairs with holidays; 'in December' for timing; avoid confusing December with the season; practice common phrases like 'in December' and 'this December'
- Always check if the culture celebrates differently at year-end; use examples about holidays or deadlines; single-number month formats like '12' appear in dates; refer to calendars for practice; pair with winter or holidays to solidify meaning.
Common Misconceptions
- December is the 12th month by name, but historically it was the tenth month in the Roman calendar.
- December always means winter (in every country) when used in English contexts.
- December and winter are the same concept in English; they are not.
- The word December must always be capitalized; this is true in English but not in all languages.
- You only celebrate holidays in December; many cultures have different year-end timing.
Thinking Differences
Months in English are proper nouns and capitalized; learners must distinguish between month names and seasons and learn the common prepositions (in December, this December).
Learning Tips
- Memorize that December is the last month of the year in most places.
- Practice 'in December' vs 'this December' in sentences.
- Link December with year-end events and holidays.
- Review the Latin origin (decem = ten) to remember the name.
- Capitalize the month name every time it appears in English.
- Read calendars or planners to reinforce month recognition.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'december'?
A.A cold-weather holiday celebrated worldwide
B.The twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar
C.A type of evergreen tree
D.A unit of currency in an old system
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'december' correctly?
A.She decembered the package before mailing it.
B.We always visit family in december for the holidays.
C.The chef adds december to the recipe for flavor.
D.He bought a new december to hang on the wall.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'december'?
A.month
B.holiday
C.weekday
D.season
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which of these best represents the opposite or contrasting concept to 'december'?
A.November
B.January
C.winter
D.holiday
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where this word would be used? Pick the best prompt to practice aloud.
A.Talk about your preparations for starting a new school term in September.
B.Explain your favorite summer beach activity and who you go with.
C.Describe a family gathering around the end-of-year holidays and why it's special to you.
D.Describe planting crops and the farming tasks you do in spring.
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