Advent
The arrival of a person or an important event. Here it refers to the month before Christmas
and the arrival of Jesus.
Bethlehem
The town thought to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Boxing Day In the UK, December 26 is called Boxing Day. It was traditionally a day to give presents
to the poor.
Candle A round stick of wax with a central wick which is lit to give light as it burns.
Chimney A vertical structure which extends through the roof of a house and allows smoke to
escape from the fireplace.
Santa Claus (Father Christmas) traditionally enters a house through the chimney. Cracker A decorated cardboard tube wrapped in paper, that makes a sharp explosive noise
("crack!") and releases a small gift when two people pull it apart.
Egg-nog A traditional Christmas drink in the US made of beaten eggs, milk or cream, sugar
and alcohol.
Christmas decoration. When 2 people walk under the plant, they are supposed to kiss.
Myrrh Gum from a tree, used for perfume or incense : one of the gifts given to Jesus by the
three wise men.
Ornament A decoration which, at Christmas, is hung on a Christmas tree.
Reindeer A large deer with branching antlers found in some cold climates, and thought to pull
Santa's sleigh.
Santa Claus An imaginary bearded old man, wearing a red suit, who lives at the North Pole and
brings presents for children at Christmas. Traditionally Santa Claus travels in a sleigh
pulled by reindeers and enters the house through the chimney on Christmas Eve.
Sleigh A sledge or light cart pulled by horses or reindeer over snow and ice.
Tinsel A glittering material produced in strips and used for decoration at Christmas.
Turkey Large bird very often eaten at Christmas.
Wreath Circular band of flowers or leaves used to decorate the front door of homes at Christmas.