Dictionary of English - Xmas

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

This abbreviation has a very limited range of acceptable use. There is really no reason to use it in speech, as it is no shorter than Christmas, and it should not be used in formal writing. Many Christians dislike it, although the X is not just an arbitrary letter but represents chi, the initial letter of Christ's name in Greek. It is probably best to think of Xmas as an abbreviation like Thurs or Fri, and avoid using it anywhere you would write Thursday or Friday in full.

The stars represent the five regions of Turkmenistan. The crescent symbolizes Islam. Effective date: 19 February 1997. >>