Halloween
/ˌhæləˈwiːn/noun
A holiday celebrated on October 31st, characterized by spooky themes and festivities.
Did you know?Halloween traces back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, believed to be a time when the veil between the living and the dead was thinnest.
Etymological Timeline
Old Irish
Old Irish
Samhain
“The end of the harvest season, marking a time when the dead could return to the living.”
10th Century
Old English
halga
“Related to 'holy' or 'sacred', linked to the festival's religious roots.”
15th Century
Middle English
halwen
“The evening before All Hallows, associated with the celebration of saints.”
19th Century
English
Halloween
“The modern form of the festival's name, merging Christian and pagan traditions.”