Good Tidings and Feliz Navidad: The Origins of Holiday Phrases
December brings together many traditions and cultures — it’s a time to include everyone in the festivities, and there’s language to do that. ’Tis the season for holiday phrases: Carols, decorations, and greeting cards are wishing “happy holidays,” “good tidings,” and a seemingly infinite number of other festive expressions. Some
Christmas phrases come from Old English, while other salutations are 20th-century inventions. Let’s take time to explore the history behind some of these seasonal sayings so that you can have an even merrier and informed holiday season. “Good tidings we bring to you and your kin. We wish you a...
