History of the word “Xmas”

Greek Letter X "chi"

What I’m about to tell you is news to me as well. I have always found it offensive when someone would send me a Christmas card with the words, “Merry Xmas.” Why? Because I’ve always felt that when someone did that, it was somewhat of an effort on their part to remove “Christ” from the picture. You know, “The war on Christmas,” stuff.

Well, what a surprise I got. Lexically speaking, Christ is, and always has been in Xmas. “X” is the Greek letter “Chi” and the first letter in the word “Cristos,” which means Christ. Xmas did not show up in English until the 1500′s, but the letter “X” meaning Christ has been in use for 1000 years! Alright, but why the abbreviation? Let’s remember that the use of “X” pre-dates the printing press when books were hand written, written on hard to find materials, and very expensive. It’s a no brainer, use “X” to save space, time and money. But although we know it isn’t offensive to use “Merry Xmas,” do be aware that some still find it so, so use good judgment when wishing someone a Merry “Xmas.” But at least you now know it isn’t disrespectful if you get a card with “Xmas,” and you won’t let it ruin your Christmas. Leave that up to the Scrooges behind the cash registers. Merry Xmas all!

History of Words Christmas, Xmas