a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Christ; a quarter day in England, Wales, and Ireland
"The family gathered on xmas to celebrate the birth of Christ while also marking the traditional quarter day when wages were paid."
Abbreviation of Christmas.
"The post office is closed on xmas, so please send your letter early."
"We are buying extra gifts for everyone on xmas this year."
The word "xmas" comes from the Old English phrase Cristes mæsse, meaning "Christmas mass," where the initial C was replaced by a cross (X) to represent Christ. This abbreviation, which dates back at least to 1551, became popular in everyday use during the late 19th century as a shorthand for Christmas.