Christmas Words That Start With B [LIST]

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and tradition, filled with a variety of special words that help capture the magic of the season. While many festive terms come to mind, it’s fun to explore those that start with specific letters, like the letter “B”. From decorations and activities to holiday foods and customs, the letter B has its share of words that bring warmth and cheer to the holiday season. These words can be used to enhance holiday cards, conversations, and creative projects as you embrace the spirit of Christmas.

In this article, we’ll dive into a curated list of Christmas-related words that start with the letter B. Whether you’re looking for new words to incorporate into your holiday vocabulary or simply interested in the festive terms that make the season brighter, this collection has something for everyone. From classic terms like ‘bells’ and ‘baubles’ to more unique expressions, each word evokes a special piece of the Christmas celebration, making it easier to spread holiday cheer.

Christmas Words That Start With B

1. Baubles

Baubles are decorative ornaments, usually made of glass, plastic, or metal, that are hung on Christmas trees. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and are often used to add a festive sparkle to the tree.

Examples

• The Christmas tree was adorned with shimmering silver and gold baubles.
• We carefully hung the delicate glass baubles on the branches, making sure none would fall.

2. Baking

Baking refers to the process of preparing food by cooking it with dry heat, typically in an oven. During Christmas, baking is a popular activity, with many people making cookies, cakes, pies, and other festive goodies.

Examples

• Baking gingerbread cookies has become a holiday tradition in our family.
• She spent the entire afternoon baking Christmas treats to share with neighbors.

3. Blitzen

Blitzen is one of Santa Claus’s reindeer, introduced in the famous poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ by Clement Clarke Moore. Blitzen’s name is derived from the German word ‘blitz,’ meaning ‘lightning.’

Examples

• Blitzen is one of Santa’s reindeer, known for his speed and agility.
• The story of Santa’s sleigh ride always mentions Blitzen leading the way through the snow.

4. Bells

Bells are often used in Christmas decorations, symbolizing the joy and celebration of the holiday season. Their ringing is commonly associated with the sound of Christmas carols and the festive atmosphere.

Examples

• The sound of jingle bells echoed through the town square on Christmas Eve.
• We hung small silver bells on the tree to create a gentle, melodic chime whenever someone brushed past.

5. Baking Sheet

A baking sheet is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other treats. It is commonly used during the Christmas season for baking holiday sweets like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and other festive snacks.

Examples

• The gingerbread dough spread perfectly across the baking sheet, ready for the oven.
• She lined the baking sheet with parchment paper before placing the cookies on it.

6. Bliss

Bliss refers to a state of complete happiness or joy. During Christmas, many people experience bliss from being with family, receiving gifts, or simply enjoying the festive season.

Examples

• The children were filled with bliss as they opened their presents on Christmas morning.
• The quiet, peaceful snowfall brought a sense of bliss to the Christmas night.

7. Bough

A bough is a large branch of a tree, often used in Christmas decorations. Sprigs of evergreen boughs are commonly used to make wreaths, garlands, and tree decorations during the holiday season.

Examples

• The boughs of the Christmas tree were heavy with ornaments and lights.
• We decorated the front door with fresh pine boughs, adding a natural touch to the holiday decor.

8. Biscuit

In the UK, a biscuit is a sweet, crisp treat that is often served during tea time or as a holiday snack. In the US, biscuits are a type of soft bread roll, often served with gravy or as part of a Christmas meal.

Examples

• We served warm Christmas biscuits with cinnamon and sugar for breakfast on Christmas morning.
• The Christmas biscuits were perfectly golden and soft, a treat that everyone enjoyed.

9. Bethlehem

Bethlehem is the city in Judea where Jesus Christ is believed to have been born. It holds great significance in Christian tradition, especially during the Christmas season, and is a focal point for nativity scenes and church services.

Examples

• Many nativity scenes depict the humble stable in Bethlehem where Jesus was born.
• Our church held a special Christmas service with a live reenactment of the journey to Bethlehem.

10. Bishop

A bishop is a high-ranking clergy member in Christian denominations. During Christmas, bishops often lead religious services, such as midnight mass, and deliver messages about the birth of Jesus.

Examples

• The bishop delivered a sermon on the true meaning of Christmas during the midnight mass.
• In some Christmas pageants, the bishop’s role is to present the Christ child to the congregation.

11. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are small, cabbage-like vegetables commonly served during the Christmas feast. Though they are often a controversial dish, they are considered a holiday staple in many homes.

Examples

• Brussels sprouts are a classic side dish served at many Christmas dinners.
• We roasted the Brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil for a tasty Christmas treat.

12. Bow

A bow is a decorative knot, usually made from ribbon or fabric, that is often used to embellish gifts, wreaths, and other Christmas decorations. Bows add a touch of elegance and festivity to the holiday season.

Examples

• She tied a big red bow around the gift, adding a festive touch.
• The presents under the tree were topped with elegant bows, making them look even more beautiful.

13. Baking Powder

Baking powder is a leavening agent used in baking to make cakes, cookies, and other baked goods rise. It is a key ingredient in many Christmas recipes, particularly for cakes and pastries.

Examples

• The cookies didn’t rise properly because I forgot to add the baking powder.
• For light and fluffy cakes, don’t forget the baking powder when preparing your Christmas desserts.

14. Blow Mold

Blow molds are plastic decorations that are molded into festive shapes such as Santa Claus, snowmen, and reindeer. These colorful figures are often used for outdoor Christmas displays and are a nostalgic symbol of vintage holiday decor.

Examples

• We set up a collection of vintage blow mold figures in our front yard for Christmas.
• The blow mold Santa Claus illuminated our driveway, casting a cheerful glow.

15. Balsam Fir

Balsam Fir is a popular type of Christmas tree known for its deep green color and fragrant, needle-like leaves. It is often chosen for Christmas because of its symmetrical shape and pleasant scent, making it a favorite for holiday decorations.

Examples

• The scent of the Balsam Fir tree filled the house, making it feel like Christmas had truly arrived.
• We decided on a Balsam Fir tree this year because of its lush green needles and rich fragrance.

16. Bacon

Bacon, a type of cured pork, is often enjoyed during holiday meals. It may be served alongside eggs for breakfast or included in savory side dishes at the Christmas dinner table.

Examples

• Some families add crispy bacon to their Christmas breakfast spread.
• The savory aroma of bacon sizzling in the pan added a cozy feel to Christmas morning.

17. Bargain

A bargain refers to a deal where something is sold for less than its usual price. During the Christmas shopping season, many people look for bargains, especially during sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Examples

• We found some great bargains while Christmas shopping, saving money on gifts.
• Black Friday is known for offering some of the best bargains before Christmas.

18. Bonfire

A bonfire is a large outdoor fire, often used for warmth, light, or social gatherings. During Christmas, some families enjoy a bonfire to create a cozy, festive environment, especially in colder climates.

Examples

• We gathered around the bonfire outside, roasting marshmallows and singing Christmas carols.
• The warm glow of the bonfire created a magical atmosphere during the Christmas evening party.

19. Brass Band

A brass band is a musical group composed mainly of brass instruments such as trumpets, trombones, and tubas. Brass bands often perform during Christmas parades and public events, playing popular holiday songs and spreading Christmas cheer.

Examples

• A brass band played lively Christmas tunes as part of the holiday parade.
• The brass band’s rendition of ‘Jingle Bells’ brought festive cheer to the crowd.

20. Bells of St. Mary’s

The Bells of St. Mary’s is a popular Christmas carol, often associated with church bells ringing in celebration of the holiday. The song’s lyrics convey the spirit of joy and reverence during the Christmas season.

Examples

• The Bells of St. Mary’s rang out across the town square, signaling the start of the Christmas Eve service.
• The song ‘The Bells of St. Mary’s’ is a beloved Christmas carol that evokes feelings of nostalgia.

21. Bishop’s Pie

Bishop’s Pie is a traditional Christmas dish, often made with minced meat and vegetables, covered in a rich pastry. It’s known for its savory, comforting qualities and is a festive treat in some cultures.

Examples

• Bishop’s Pie is a savory Christmas dish, filled with rich meat and vegetables.
• We had Bishop’s Pie for Christmas dinner, a hearty dish that kept everyone full and satisfied.

22. Bouncing

Bouncing describes the action of something springing back after being dropped or struck. During Christmas, children often bounce with excitement as they anticipate the joy and surprises of the season.

Examples

• The kids were bouncing with excitement as they waited for Santa’s arrival.
• We watched as the Christmas ornaments bounced gently on the tree branches, swaying with the breeze.

Historical Context

The Christmas holiday has long been a blend of ancient traditions, religious observance, and cultural celebrations, with each contributing to the rich lexicon associated with the season. Words related to Christmas, including those that begin with the letter “B,” often carry historical significance that speaks to the evolution of the holiday from its early roots in pagan festivals to its modern, global celebration.

Historically, Christmas was originally a Christian festival marking the birth of Jesus Christ, but over time, it absorbed customs from various sources. For example, the use of the Christmas tree and the practice of feasting can be traced back to winter solstice celebrations. Many “B” words associated with Christmas, such as "bells" or "boughs," have their origins in these ancient festivities.

The ringing of church bells during the Christmas season is a practice that dates back to medieval times when bells were used not only to announce services but also to summon people for communal celebrations. Bells were considered to have spiritual significance, symbolizing joy, and calling communities together. The word "bells" is thus deeply embedded in both the religious and social aspects of Christmas.

Similarly, "boughs," or the branches of evergreen trees, have roots in pre-Christian solstice festivals where they symbolized endurance through the harsh winter months. The practice of decorating homes with boughs, particularly of holly, fir, and pine, merged with Christian traditions in the Middle Ages, creating a festive, symbolic atmosphere that signified both the endurance of life during winter and the hope of Christ’s birth.

Words like "blessing" also have strong ties to Christmas’s historical context. The concept of blessing, and the idea of "blessing" others during Christmas, has been integral to Christian practices, with blessings offered as prayers of goodwill and gratitude. In many ways, these words illustrate the religious and social dynamics of Christmas over the centuries, from its early sacred observance to the more widespread secular customs seen today.

Word Origins And Etymology

Exploring the etymology of Christmas-related words beginning with "B" unveils fascinating layers of cultural, linguistic, and historical development. Many of these words have evolved over centuries, often drawing from Old English, Latin, Germanic, and other European languages.

Bells

The word "bells" has its origins in the Old English word bellan, which is related to the Old High German word bulla, meaning "to ring" or "to sound." Bells were historically made from metal and were crafted to produce a resonant sound. In medieval Europe, bells became an integral part of Christmas celebrations, particularly for their role in marking church services and signaling festive events. Their association with Christmas carries over into modern traditions, such as caroling and ringing bells for charity.

Boughs

The word "bough" originates from the Old English boc, meaning "branch." The usage of evergreen boughs in winter celebrations predates Christmas itself, often used in ancient winter solstice festivals to symbolize the resilience of nature and the hope for the return of spring. As Christianity spread through Europe, the practice of decorating with evergreen boughs was incorporated into Christmas observances. The word "boughs" continues to evoke imagery of the holiday season, particularly in the context of decorating homes and public spaces with seasonal greenery.

Blessing

The word "blessing" comes from the Old English blessedness, which itself derives from blessed, meaning "to make holy" or "to consecrate." The Christian practice of offering blessings has a direct connection to the nativity story, where figures like the angels and the shepherds offer blessings and praise for the birth of Jesus. The word "blessing" thus ties directly to the spiritual nature of Christmas and is used in both religious and secular contexts to express goodwill and happiness.

Bough Of Holly

The term "holly" is derived from the Old English word holi, which is thought to have roots in Proto-Indo-European *kel-, meaning "to strike or cut" (as the plant has sharp leaves). Holly has long been a symbol of protection, and its association with Christmas comes from its use in pre-Christian winter solstice celebrations. When Christianity spread, holly became a symbol of Christ’s crown of thorns and was used to decorate churches and homes during the holiday season.

Biscuit (or "Biscuits" In The UK)

The word "biscuit" originates from the Latin bis coctus, meaning "twice baked." Although traditionally a food eaten throughout the year, biscuits—particularly Christmas cookies—have become synonymous with the festive season. Their shape, texture, and decoration, such as gingerbread men, are now central to holiday celebrations. The rise of commercialized Christmas cookies and biscuits in the Victorian era was driven by mass production and new cooking techniques, giving rise to the holiday baking traditions that are so beloved today.

Common Misconceptions

While many of the "B" words associated with Christmas are well-known, there are a few common misconceptions that arise about their meanings or origins.

Bells Are Just For Sounding

A common misconception is that bells are used exclusively for their sound. While their musical ringing is central to many Christmas traditions, bells also symbolize the spiritual and communal nature of the holiday. In medieval Europe, the sound of bells was thought to drive away evil spirits and to call people together for worship and feasting. The association of bells with Christmas isn’t just about auditory joy; it also carries deep symbolism tied to the birth of Christ and the joyous announcement of his arrival.

Boughs Of Holly Are A Pagan Symbol

Another misconception is that all aspects of Christmas greenery, such as holly boughs, are purely pagan in origin. While it is true that holly was used in pre-Christian winter solstice celebrations, the modern use of holly at Christmas is rooted in Christian symbolism. The red berries of holly are often interpreted as symbolizing Christ’s blood, while its prickly leaves represent the crown of thorns worn by Christ during his crucifixion. Over time, these associations have been blended into Christmas traditions, giving holly a distinctly Christian, rather than pagan, meaning.

Blessing Means Only Religious Blessings

The word "blessing" is often seen as purely religious, but it has a broader meaning that encompasses expressions of goodwill and good fortune. In the context of Christmas, blessings are often secular, given as words of joy and goodwill to others. For example, the phrase "Merry Christmas" can be seen as a form of blessing, wishing others happiness, peace, and prosperity during the festive season. The idea of blessing in this context transcends religious boundaries and takes on a universal meaning of hope and goodwill.

Conclusion

Christmas is a season rich with traditions, words, and symbols that have evolved over centuries, and many of these are encapsulated in the letter "B." From the jubilant sound of bells to the greenery of boughs, the act of blessing, and the culinary delight of biscuits, each word carries with it deep historical and cultural significance. Whether religious or secular, the Christmas words that start with "B" represent not just customs and rituals but also the enduring human desire for connection, joy, and goodwill during this special time of year.

These words also reveal how languages evolve and how traditions adapt, merge, and take on new meanings over time. From their roots in ancient rituals to their place in modern-day celebrations, they reflect the diverse ways people across cultures celebrate Christmas—whether through the ringing of bells, the offering of blessings, or the sharing of holiday treats. As we continue to celebrate, these words remain a part of the story of Christmas, reminding us of both the past and the present in this timeless holiday.