Whitsuntide

C2 8+

Pronunciation: /ˈwɪtsənˌtaɪd/

Definitions of Whitsuntide

noun Whitsuntide

Example Sentences

A1 Whitsuntide is a Christian festival that celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus.

A2 During Whitsuntide, people often attend church services and participate in traditional customs such as decorating with white flowers.

B1 Many countries in Europe have public holidays during Whitsuntide, allowing people to spend time with family and friends.

B2 In some cultures, Whitsuntide is also known as Pentecost and is celebrated with special church services and feasts.

C1 Whitsuntide is a significant religious holiday that marks the end of the Easter season and the beginning of Ordinary Time in the Christian liturgical calendar.

C2 The traditions and customs surrounding Whitsuntide vary from region to region, with some areas holding parades and festivals to mark the occasion.

Examples of Whitsuntide in a Sentence

formal Many Christian churches celebrate Whitsuntide as the feast of Pentecost, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.

informal During Whitsuntide, families often gather for picnics and outdoor activities.

slang Whitsuntide is a great excuse to have a long weekend getaway with friends.

figurative The colorful flowers blooming everywhere during Whitsuntide symbolize new beginnings and growth.

Grammatical Forms of Whitsuntide

plural

Whitsuntides

comparative

more Whitsuntide

superlative

most Whitsuntide

present tense

celebrates Whitsuntide

future tense

will celebrate Whitsuntide

perfect tense

has celebrated Whitsuntide

continuous tense

is celebrating Whitsuntide

singular

Whitsuntide

positive degree

Whitsuntide

infinitive

to Whitsuntide

gerund

celebrating Whitsuntide

participle

celebrated Whitsuntide

Origin and Evolution of Whitsuntide

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'Whitsuntide' originated from Old English, combining 'Whitsun' (meaning 'Pentecost') and 'tide' (meaning 'time' or 'season').
Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'Whitsuntide' has become less commonly used in modern English, with 'Pentecost' or 'Pentecost Sunday' being more prevalent to refer to the Christian festival. The word 'tide' in this context has also evolved to be more commonly associated with the concept of 'time' rather than a specific season or festival.