Michaelmas (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/mɪkəlməs/

Meaning and Usage

"Michaelmas" refers to the feast of Saint Michael, the archangel, celebrated on September 29th in the Western Christian tradition. This day marks the beginning of the autumn season in the ecclesiastical calendar and is significant in various cultures. It's used primarily in religious contexts and is known for traditions like the celebration of harvest and various local customs involving fairs.

In terms of frequency of use, "Michaelmas" is relatively infrequent in everyday language, primarily appearing in written texts concerning religious practices or historical references. It is more often utilized in written context than oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. "We celebrate Michaelmas with a special service at the church."
   "Celebremos el día de San Miguel con un servicio especial en la iglesia."

2. "Traditionally, many crops were harvested by Michaelmas."
   "Tradicionalmente, muchas cosechas se recogían para el día de San Miguel."

3. "The school year often starts around Michaelmas."
   "El año escolar a menudo comienza alrededor del día de San Miguel."

Idiomatic Expressions

While "Michaelmas" is not commonly used in popular idiomatic expressions, it does appear in some cultural contexts regarding the harvest and the church calendar. Here are some related expressions:

1. "By Michaelmas, the leaves turn golden."
   "Para el día de San Miguel, las hojas se tornan doradas."

2. This expression is used to signify the onset of autumn.

3. "At Michaelmas, we reflect on the year’s bounty."
   "En el día de San Miguel, reflexionamos sobre la abundancia del año."

4. This sentence reflects on gratitude and the harvest season.

5. "Michaelmas marks the end of summer's grace."
   "El día de San Miguel marca el final de la gracia del verano."

6. This expression evokes a transition in seasonal culture.

7. "People say that what you do on Michaelmas sets the tone for the winter."
   "La gente dice que lo que haces en el día de San Miguel establece el tono para el invierno."

8. This implies superstitions surrounding fate tied to this date.

Etymology

The term "Michaelmas" originates from Middle English Mikemas, derived from the Old English Mīhaelmas, which literally means "Mass of Michael." The word combines "Michael," referring to the archangel, with "mas," which is derived from "Mass," alluding to the liturgical celebration of the day.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: Feast of Saint Michael, Saint Michael's Day
• Antonyms: (There are no direct antonyms for "Michaelmas" due to its specific reference to a particular feast day; however, one could consider non-religious harvest celebrations as contrasts in cultural context.)

This comprehensive overview provides insight into the usage, cultural significance, and broader implications of "Michaelmas" in the English language.