noun / verb

holiday

HAH-luh-day/ˈhɑːlədeɪ/

A period set aside from ordinary work for rest or celebration.

Our office closes on Monday to observe the national holiday.

An office sits closed while families gather outdoors with decorations, food, and relaxed games on a shared day off.

Etymology

A holiday was originally a 'holy day' set aside for religious observance. The meaning broadened from a religious festival to a day free from work, and then to recreation and celebration more generally.

In context

The Root presenter2:38

long opposition to a federal holiday for Dr. King

Hoodwinked History: How False Civil Rights Narratives Distort Modern Freedom Struggles | The Root

Binging with Babish presenter5:49

and getting ready to host our holiday party,

Binging with Babish: Mayor's Request from Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

More examples

We spend the holidays visiting family and sharing meals.
The company gives employees two paid holidays in November.
Labor Day is a holiday for many American workers.

Forms

holiday · holidays · holidayed · holidaying

Similar words

vacation: Usually means extended time off, often involving travel.
festival: Emphasizes organized celebrations rather than exemption from work.