merry Christmas

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العربية الفصحى
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/ˌmeri ˈkrɪsməs/
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A cheerful wish for the Christmas season.
Practice using merry Christmas in conversation until it feels natural

Similar words

happy Christmas
season’s greetings

Meanings

Christmas greeting

social
neutral
Said to wish someone an enjoyable Christmas season.

Examples

  • Merry Christmas, Anna! I hope you enjoy the holiday.
  • The shopkeeper wished us merry Christmas.
  • She wrote merry Christmas on the card.
  • "Merry Christmas!" the children called from the doorway.
  • We exchanged gifts and said merry Christmas.

Similar words

happy Christmas
season’s greetings

Etymology

The greeting combines merry, meaning cheerful, with Christmas, the holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus.

FAQ

What does merry Christmas mean?

merry Christmas is a cheerful Christmas wish.

When is merry Christmas used?

Said to wish someone an enjoyable Christmas season.

How do people reply to merry Christmas?

Merry Christmas or thank you, you too is a common reply.

Is merry Christmas formal?

It is warm and common in cards, conversation, and seasonal messages.

How is merry Christmas different from happy holidays?

Merry Christmas names Christmas, while happy holidays can cover a broader holiday season.

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