Christmas Words That Start With A [LIST]

As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to dive into the festive world of Christmas words. Whether you’re crafting the perfect greeting card, writing a holiday story, or simply getting into the spirit, knowing the right terms can add that extra holiday cheer. One of the best ways to celebrate is by exploring the alphabet, starting with “A”. From decorations to traditions, there are many Christmas words that begin with this letter, each adding a unique flavor to the holiday season. In this article, we’ll explore a list of Christmas words that start with ‘A’ and help you embrace the joy of Christmas in a creative way.

The letter ‘A’ serves as the perfect starting point to discover various aspects of Christmas. Words like “advent”, “angels”, and ‘aroma’ are just the beginning, evoking imagery of spiritual preparation, celestial beings, and delightful scents. These words not only reflect the joy and warmth of the season but also encompass the cultural and religious traditions that make Christmas so special. Whether you’re using them for crafting holiday messages or looking to expand your festive vocabulary, this list will enhance your Christmas experience with words that start with the letter A.

Christmas Words That Start With A

1. Advent

Advent refers to the period of four weeks leading up to Christmas, marking the arrival of Christ. It is a time of spiritual reflection, preparation, and expectation for Christians. The season is traditionally observed with the lighting of Advent candles, one for each Sunday of the season.

Examples

• Advent is a time of anticipation and preparation for the arrival of Christmas, beginning four Sundays before December 25.
• The church holds a special Advent service every Sunday leading up to Christmas Day.

2. Angel

Angels are divine messengers often depicted in Christmas traditions as announcing the birth of Jesus Christ to the shepherds. They symbolize peace, hope, and divine intervention in the nativity story.

Examples

• The angel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would give birth to Jesus.
• Many Christmas decorations feature angels, symbolizing the heavenly announcement of Christ’s birth.

3. Anticipation

Anticipation refers to the joyful expectancy leading up to Christmas Day, especially among children. It is a key element in the Christmas season, involving the build-up of excitement around the holiday’s traditions, gifts, and celebrations.

Examples

• The anticipation of Christmas Eve brings excitement to children who eagerly await the arrival of Santa Claus.
• As Advent progresses, the anticipation of Christmas Day builds in both the church and the home.

4. Arrangement

Arrangement refers to the thoughtful placement of decorations, gifts, or festive elements in preparation for Christmas. It can also refer to the planning of Christmas meals and gatherings.

Examples

• We worked together on the arrangement of the Christmas tree ornaments to create a balanced and festive look.
• The Christmas dinner arrangement included a variety of traditional foods.

5. Amaryllis

Amaryllis is a type of flowering plant known for its large, trumpet-shaped blooms. These flowers, especially in red or white, are popular during the Christmas season for their festive look and symbolism of beauty and renewal.

Examples

• Amaryllis flowers are often given as Christmas gifts because of their vibrant colors that complement holiday décor.
• The red and white amaryllis blooms looked stunning as part of the Christmas centerpiece.

6. Adoration

Adoration refers to the act of showing deep reverence and love, especially in the context of the nativity story. It signifies the respect and worship shown to Jesus Christ by those who visited him shortly after his birth.

Examples

• The nativity scene represents the adoration of the baby Jesus by the shepherds and the wise men.
• In the church, a special service was held to celebrate the adoration of Christ on Christmas Eve.

7. Auspicious

Auspicious means favorable or likely to bring success, often used to describe events or conditions that are believed to portend a positive outcome. During Christmas, the season is often thought to be auspicious for new beginnings, happiness, and togetherness.

Examples

• The bright stars on Christmas Eve are often seen as an auspicious sign of hope and joy for the coming year.
• The family gathered for an auspicious Christmas dinner, filled with laughter and warmth.

8. Altar

An altar is a sacred space, often found in churches, where religious rituals take place. During Christmas, the altar is often decorated to celebrate the birth of Jesus, symbolizing the place where offerings and worship are made.

Examples

• The Christmas Eve service was held at the church, with the altar beautifully adorned with candles and flowers.
• Many people place a nativity scene on the altar as part of their Christmas tradition.

9. Apple cider

Apple cider is a beverage made from pressed apples, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. It can be served hot or cold, frequently spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and other warm flavors to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Examples

• Apple cider is a traditional drink enjoyed at Christmas gatherings, especially when served warm with spices.
• After the Christmas carolers arrived, they were greeted with a mug of hot apple cider.

10. Angelic

Angelic refers to qualities associated with angels, such as purity, beauty, and serenity. During Christmas, this term is often used to describe voices, appearances, or acts that evoke the holiness and peace of the season.

Examples

• The children’s choir sang an angelic rendition of ‘Silent Night’ during the Christmas service.
• Her angelic voice filled the room with warmth and joy, making the Christmas gathering truly memorable.

11. Arctic

The Arctic is a region near the North Pole, often associated with extreme cold and snow. In Christmas lore, it is the home of Santa Claus and his workshop, and is often used as a backdrop for stories of wintery landscapes and snowy Christmases.

Examples

• Santa’s sleigh is said to travel through the Arctic on its way to deliver presents around the world.
• The cold, arctic winds added a wintry chill to the Christmas season, making the fireside even more inviting.

12. Alpine

Alpine refers to regions or landscapes found in or around mountains, often associated with high altitudes and snow-covered peaks. Alpine settings are commonly featured in Christmas imagery, evoking a traditional winter wonderland.

Examples

• The alpine forests were covered with snow, providing a picturesque scene for a Christmas card.
• Skiing in the alpine mountains is a popular Christmas tradition for those who enjoy winter sports.

13. Arise

Arise means to come forth or emerge, often in a context of new beginnings. At Christmas, this word symbolizes the spiritual awakening and renewed hope that the holiday represents for Christians around the world.

Examples

• On Christmas morning, children arise early to see what gifts Santa has left them.
• A sense of joy and hope arose in the hearts of the believers as they celebrated Christ’s birth.

14. Allusion

Allusion is a reference to something, often literary or historical, without directly mentioning it. In Christmas traditions, allusions to the birth of Jesus, as well as to other holiday symbols, are often woven into stories, songs, and decorations.

Examples

• Many Christmas carols make an allusion to the nativity story, referring to the birth of Christ.
• The holiday movie made a subtle allusion to the Christmas miracle through its heartwarming plot.

15. Auspices

Auspices refers to the support or guidance of an organization or individual. During Christmas, various events and activities are often held under auspices, symbolizing community support and cooperation during the festive season.

Examples

• The Christmas concert was held under the auspices of the local church, with all proceeds going to charity.
• The event was organized under the auspices of the mayor, who wanted to bring the community together for the holidays.

16. Alms

Alms are charitable donations or gifts given to those in need, often as an act of kindness and compassion. The tradition of giving alms during Christmas stems from the desire to help the less fortunate and reflect the generosity shown by the wise men and others in the nativity story.

Examples

• During Christmas, many people give alms to the poor, following the spirit of generosity that defines the holiday.
• The church collects alms during Christmas Eve services to support local families in need.

17. Afterglow

Afterglow refers to the warm, lingering light or feeling that remains after a significant event. In the context of Christmas, it can describe the warmth and joy that persists after the holiday celebrations, whether from the glow of Christmas lights or the emotional impact of spending time with loved ones.

Examples

• The afterglow of Christmas lights lingered long after the festivities had ended, keeping the spirit alive in the home.
• The afterglow from the Christmas bonfire made the evening feel magical and warm.

18. Archetype

Archetype refers to a typical example or symbol that embodies certain qualities. During Christmas, archetypes such as Santa Claus, the nativity figures, or the idea of gift-giving represent universal themes of kindness, generosity, and joy.

Examples

• The archetype of Santa Claus is an enduring symbol of generosity and joy during the Christmas season.
• In many Christmas stories, the archetype of the wise man represents wisdom and gift-giving.

19. Agape

Agape is a Greek term for unconditional, selfless love, often used to describe God’s love for humanity. During Christmas, agape love is central to the celebration of Christ’s birth, symbolizing peace, goodwill, and compassion for all.

Examples

• Agape love, a selfless and unconditional love, is often emphasized in Christmas teachings.
• The Christmas story exemplifies the agape love of God, who sent His son to save humanity.

20. Autumn

Autumn is the season that precedes winter and Christmas, characterized by falling leaves and cooler temperatures. The transition from autumn to winter marks the beginning of the holiday season, which culminates in Christmas celebrations.

Examples

• The crisp autumn air and falling leaves set the stage for the winter that would soon follow, leading into the Christmas season.
• Autumn is the time to begin preparing for the Christmas season, choosing decorations and planning gatherings.

Historical Context

The celebration of Christmas, as one of the most important religious and cultural holidays in the world, is steeped in centuries of tradition. As such, the words and phrases associated with Christmas have evolved over time, many of them emerging from the blending of Christian practices with older, pre-existing customs and languages. The letter “A” begins numerous words tied to this rich history, from the sacred to the secular, and these terms reflect both the spiritual depth and cultural significance of the holiday.

Historically, the roots of many Christmas words beginning with "A" lie in ancient religious and folk practices. For instance, “Advent,” one of the most prominent terms, marks the four-week period leading up to Christmas. This word originates from the Latin adventus, meaning "arrival" or "coming," which in turn was used to describe the arrival of Jesus Christ on Earth. The term itself gained prominence in the early Christian church as a way to mark the anticipation and spiritual preparation for Christ’s birth, beginning as early as the 4th century.

The word “Angel,” another iconic Christmas term, also carries deep historical weight. Angels, in Christian theology, are messengers of God, with their roles in the nativity narrative, particularly the angelic proclamation to the shepherds, making them central to the Christmas story. Angels, as spiritual beings, were present in religious texts and folklore long before they became symbolic of Christmas celebrations. The connection between angels and Christmas was solidified through sacred hymns and the tradition of angel-themed Christmas decorations, such as tree toppers.

Additionally, “Amaryllis,” a Christmas flower often linked to holiday decorations, has roots in both ancient Greek mythology and Christian symbolism. In classical mythology, Amaryllis was a character associated with love and beauty, but the association of the flower with Christmas stems from its winter bloom and its vivid, rich colors, which resonate with the festive and joyful atmosphere of the holiday.

Thus, the historical context of Christmas words beginning with "A" often intersects with religious symbolism, cultural practices, and seasonal significance. These words encapsulate not only the spirit of Christmas but also reflect a deep history that is interwoven with centuries of Christian observance and folk traditions.

Word Origins And Etymology

Understanding the etymology and origins of Christmas-related words beginning with “A” provides valuable insight into their evolution and cultural significance. The words themselves reveal much about how language has shaped and been shaped by the Christmas season.

• Advent: Derived from the Latin adventus, meaning "arrival" or "coming," the word has been used in Christian contexts since at least the 4th century. It originally referred to the liturgical period of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth. Over time, the term became more closely associated with the specific four-week period of anticipation leading up to Christmas, a tradition that is still observed by many Christian denominations today.

• Angel: The English word “angel” comes from the Old English engel or engla, which itself was derived from the Latin angelus, meaning “messenger.” The Latin term ultimately traces back to the Greek word ἄγγελος (ángelos), which similarly means "messenger" or "messenger of God." The role of angels in Christian theology, especially in the nativity story where they announce the birth of Jesus, made the word an integral part of Christmas symbolism. Over time, angels came to represent not only messengers but also symbols of peace, protection, and divine intervention during the holiday season.

• Amaryllis: The name “Amaryllis” originates from Greek, with the root amaryllis meaning “to sparkle” or “to shine,” which is fitting given the flower’s vibrant and striking appearance. Although Amaryllis is not directly linked to Christian theology, its strong seasonal ties and its presence during winter months have made it a popular symbol of Christmas. The association with the holiday is more a product of its timing and beauty rather than religious significance.

• Altar: The word “altar” comes from the Latin altare, meaning “high,” which in turn comes from altus, meaning “elevated.” Altars have been central to religious rituals for millennia, including those in Christian churches, where the altar serves as the focal point for religious ceremonies, especially those during the Christmas Mass. The altar’s significance during Christmas lies in its use for the celebration of the Eucharist, as well as its symbolic representation of the sacrifice and divine presence.

• Agnus Dei: This Latin phrase, meaning “Lamb of God,” is used in Christian liturgical contexts, particularly during Christmas Mass. The word agnus derives from the Latin agnus, meaning "lamb," and Dei meaning "of God." It refers to Jesus Christ as the sacrificial Lamb who takes away the sins of the world, a theme closely tied to Christmas through hymns, prayers, and scripture readings that highlight the nativity as the moment of Christ’s entry into the world for the salvation of humanity.

These words and their origins reflect the deep Christian underpinnings of the Christmas celebration, demonstrating how language has evolved in relation to religious beliefs and practices. The etymology of Christmas words starting with “A” reveals not only their theological significance but also how they have been woven into cultural and seasonal traditions over centuries.

Common Misconceptions

While many Christmas words beginning with “A” are familiar, there are several common misconceptions that surround their meanings, origins, or associations with the holiday. Understanding these misconceptions can help clarify how these terms are used in the context of Christmas and their deeper significance.

• Advent: A common misconception about Advent is that it simply refers to the days leading up to Christmas. In reality, Advent is a specific liturgical season in the Christian calendar, beginning on the Sunday closest to November 30 (St. Andrew’s Day) and lasting for four weeks. It is a time of spiritual preparation, anticipation, and reflection, not just a countdown to Christmas. Advent calendars, which have become a popular secular tradition, often emphasize the countdown aspect but omit the religious roots of the season.

• Angel: While angels are frequently depicted as cherubic figures with wings and halos in popular Christmas imagery, this portrayal is not entirely accurate. In Christian texts, angels are described as powerful, awe-inspiring beings, often with a terrifying presence, rather than the soft, gentle figures seen in modern depictions. The idea of angels as cute and cuddly is a more recent development, influenced by art and popular culture, but it does not reflect the original biblical depiction.

• Amaryllis: Although the Amaryllis flower is widely associated with Christmas, it is not a native Christmas flower in the strictest sense. In fact, Amaryllis, native to South Africa, blooms in the winter, which has led to its seasonal association with the holiday, but it is not specifically tied to the Christian traditions of Christmas. Its connection to the holiday is primarily aesthetic, as its bright red and white flowers evoke the colors often associated with Christmas decorations.

• Agnus Dei: Another common misconception is that “Agnus Dei” refers to a specific Christmas hymn or chant. While it is used in liturgical settings, it is not necessarily exclusive to Christmas services. The phrase Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) appears throughout the church year, particularly during Masses that focus on the sacrifice of Christ, which is central to Christian belief at any time, not just Christmas. Many people assume it is specifically tied to Christmas, but it is actually a broader liturgical expression.

Conclusion

Christmas words that begin with the letter “A” have deep historical, religious, and cultural significance. These words, from “Advent” to “Angel” and “Agnus Dei,” carry with them a rich legacy that spans centuries, with origins rooted in ancient languages, theological traditions, and liturgical practices. They evoke powerful images of anticipation, divine messengers, and sacred rituals that shape the way Christmas is celebrated today.

The etymology of these words reveals the profound connection between language and belief systems, showing how terms like “Advent” and “Agnus Dei” were shaped by centuries of religious thought and practice. Common misconceptions about these words, from the nature of angels to the role of Advent in the Christian calendar, reflect how cultural interpretations and modern imagery have evolved.

Ultimately, the Christmas words beginning with “A” remind us of the layered history of the holiday itself, a holiday that has transformed over time, yet continues to resonate deeply with people around the world. Understanding the true meanings and origins of these words enhances our appreciation for the holiday’s spiritual depth and cultural richness.