Xmas

Pronunciation

• enPR: /krÄ­s'mÉ™s/, IPA: /ˈkrɪs.mÉ™s/, /ˈɛks.mÉ™s/

Alternative forms

• X-mas

Origin

1755, preceded by earlier forms such as X'temmas (1551) and Old English Χp̃es mæssa (1100), from Christmas, replacing Christ by abbreviation X, from Ancient Greek Χ (Ch, "(letter chi)"), from Χριστός (Christós, "Christ"). Surface analysis X("Christ") + -mas("holiday"). In popular use since late 19th century. See Xmas for more information.

Full definition of Xmas

Noun

1. (informal) Abbreviation of Christmas

Usage notes

Discouraged in formal usage, and as of late 20th century considered disrespectful by some Christians, due to the absence of the word Christ.

See for further discussion.

Anagrams

• ASMX