Holiday

Definition

Holiday refers to a day of celebration or commemoration, often marked by a cessation of work or specific activities. It can also mean a period of vacation or leisure, especially away from routine activities.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (informal)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɑːləˌdeɪ/
• Respelling: HAH-luh-day

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɒləˌdeɪ/
• Respelling: HOL-uh-day

Etymology

The word "holiday" originates from the Old English "hāligdæg," a combination of "hālig" (holy) and "dæg" (day), referring to religious observances. Over time, its meaning expanded to include secular periods of rest or recreation.

Derivatives

• Holidaymaker (noun)
• Holidaying (verb)
• Holidayless (adjective)
• Bank holiday (noun)
• Holiday season (noun)

Synonyms

• Vacation
• Break
• Festivity

Antonyms

• Workday
• Routine
• Business day

Usage

The term "holiday" is used in various cultural and personal contexts. For example, "Christmas is a widely celebrated holiday," or "She went on a holiday to the beach."

Related Terms

• Festival: A series of celebrations or events.
• Holy day: A day dedicated to religious observances.
• Leisure: Free time for relaxation or recreation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A day of celebration or commemoration: Refers to a specific day marked by special activities, often related to cultural, national, or religious traditions.
  • Example: "Thanksgiving is a national holiday in the United States."
• A period of vacation or leisure: Describes time taken off from routine work or activities.
  • Example: "They took a two-week holiday in the mountains."

Verb (informal)

• To spend a period of leisure or vacation: Refers to the act of taking a break or traveling for relaxation.
  • Example: "They are holidaying in Greece this summer."