The traditions of Christmas are steeped in rich history, and the words we use during this festive season reflect a remarkable journey through time and culture. As with many elements of historic tradition, the influence of Latin is woven into the language of Christmas. This is no surprise, considering Latin’s role as the language of the Roman Empire and, of course, Christianity long before its territories spanned much of Europe and beyond.
The word Christmas originates from the Old English phrase Cristes Maesse, first documented in 1038. It translates to ‘the Mass of Christ’, a reference to the Eucharistic celebration commemorating Jesus. The term mass comes from the Latin word missa, while Christ is derived from the Greek word Khristos, itself a translation of the Hebrew term messiah, meaning ‘anointed.’
The word festive traces back to the Latin festivus, which signifies joy and celebration. Closely linked to festum, it shares ties to the idea of a holiday or feast. Meanwhile, Advent stems from the Latin adventus, meaning ‘arrival’, signifying the anticipation of the coming of Christ.
Nativity finds its roots in several Latin terms, including nativus and nativitas, all connected to birth. This word journeyed through French before finding a home in English, a legacy of the Norman influence during the 11th century.
The word carol began with the Latin choraula, linked to musicians accompanying choruses. Over time, it evolved into a medieval dance performed in circles, often during pre-Christian celebrations. Eventually, this style of music was adapted by Christians into the Christmas carols we know today.
Christmas pudding hails from England and Ireland, once thought to include thirteen ingredients representing Jesus and the apostles. Interestingly, ‘pudding’ originally referred to a savoury mix of meats and spices, but the term shifted over centuries to describe rich, sweet dishes.
Eggnog, a Christmas staple, originated from the early medieval Britain ‘posset,’ a hot, milky, ale-like drink. By the 13th century, monks were known to drink a posset with eggs and figs. Milk, eggs, and sherry were foods of the wealthy, so eggnog was often used in toasts to prosperity and good health.
The term sugarplum initially described fruit preserved with sugar but later referred to candies made by layering hardened sugar. Thanks to works like The Nutcracker, the word became synonymous with Christmas.
Santa Claus derives from Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century figure known for generosity. Dutch settlers brought the term Sinterklaas to North America, where it transformed into the Santa we recognize today.
Lastly, crèche, a word for Nativity scenes, comes from the French term for an animal trough, echoing its biblical association with the manger where Jesus was laid. The Early Church Fathers wrote about Jesus being born in a cave. In 335 A.D, Emperor Constantine approved the cave, which was the traditional site of Jesus’ birth, to be turned into a holy site, known as the ‘Church of the Nativity.’
It is interesting to see the origin of phrases and words we take for granted. Whatever your terminology for this festive season is, I wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas.
Jonathan van Bilsen is a television host, award-winning photographer, published author, columnist and keynote speaker. Watch his show, ‘The Jonathan van Bilsen Show’, on RogersTV, the Standard Website and YouTube and follow his adventures at photosNtravel.com.
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