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English

Etymology
Xmas is an abbreviation for Christmas. It is derived from the word Χ�ι��ο�, transliterated as Christos, which is Greek for Christ. See w:Xmas|Wikipedia for more discussion.

Pronunciation
IPA: /�krɪsm�s/, /�eksm�s/
SAMPA: /"krIsm@s/, /"eksm@s/
AHD: /krĭs'm�s/, /eks'm�s/

abbreviation
Xmas

1. Christmas

Usage notes
Despite evidence of a Greek precedent, the term Christmas being abbreviated as "Xmas" or "X-mas" was uncommon before the mid-to-late 1900s. Many Christians now take offense at this abbreviation, viewing it as a symbol of commercialism, while trivializing the most important event of the season, the prophesied birth of Jesus, the Christ.

Category:Christmas

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• 2007-11-16 01:55 - 167.1.146.100 - /* Usage notes */

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