The year-end festive spirit across the world surround Chirstmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ, observed on December 25.
It is one of the biggest religious holidays that is celebrated with various get-togethers, preparing dishes, decorating Christmas trees, and attending parties.
The celebration begins on December 24, called Christmas Eve. But on this day, individuals greet each other with the phrase ‘Merry Christmas’ and not ‘Happy Christmas’.
Does “happy” have the same meaning as “merry”?
The reason behind the phrasing is that people often use the word ‘Happy’ during the new year, holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries. But for Christmas, they use ‘Merry’ instead of ‘Happy’.
The fact why Christmas is greeted as ‘Merry Christmas’ and not ‘Happy Christmas’ lies with the traditional saying that has been continuing for centuries.
Mostly, ‘Merry Christmas’ delivers an emotional and unrestrained connotation of celebration, whereas ‘Happy Christmas’ signifies a conservative and reserved celebration.
Why do we say Merry Christmas and not Happy Christmas
The phrase Merry Christmas has been traditionally used instead of “Happy Christmas” mainly because of historical and linguistic reasons.
The word “merry” originally meant cheerful, lively, or full of joy, which perfectly described the festive spirit of Christmas.
The greeting became popular in England during the 16th century and was widely used in literature, such as in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, which helped cement it in popular culture.
While “happy” also expresses goodwill, “merry” conveys a sense of warmth, celebration, and communal cheer that aligns with the Christmas spirit.
Interestingly, in some countries like the UK, both “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Christmas” are used, but “merry” remains more traditional and widely recognized globally.
