Yesterday, I posted Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day, "wassail"... so today, Christmas Day, I decided to share some more delightful words so that readers and writers can sprinkle them into their holiday conversations and writing.
Yule (n.)
An old term for Christmas or the winter solstice, originating from Norse traditions.
Wassail (v. or n.)
To toast someone’s health during festive celebrations or the spiced drink traditionally served.
Frumenty (n.)
A thick porridge-like dish made with grains and often enjoyed at medieval Christmas feasts.
Tidings (n.)
News or information, often used in the phrase “glad tidings.”
Mistletoe (n.)
A parasitic plant with symbolic use in Christmas traditions, representing love and kisses.
Noel (n.)
Another term for Christmas, derived from the Latin natalis, meaning “birth.”
Tinsel (n.)
Glittering decorative strips used to adorn Christmas trees. Originally made of real silver!
Holly (n.)
A spiky evergreen plant with red berries, synonymous with Christmas decor.
Ember Days (n.)
Specific days for fasting and prayer in preparation for seasonal festivals, including Christmas.
Christingle (n.)
A symbolic object used in Christmas church services, often a decorated orange with a candle.
Icicle (n.)
A spike of ice formed by dripping water that freezes. Its delicate nature evokes winter magic.
