easter

Eas-ter · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The most important Christian festival, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, observed on a Sunday between March 22 and April 25.

  2. 2.

    The period around this festival.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Easter egg — A decorated egg given as a gift at Easter; also, a hidden message or feature in media.
  • •
    Easter bunny — A folkloric figure who brings Easter eggs to children.
  • •
    Easter Sunday — The day Easter is celebrated.
  • •
    Good Friday — The Friday before Easter, commemorating the crucifixion.

Related words

See also: christmas, holiday, spring
Synonyms: Pascha, Resurrection Sunday

Etymology

From Old English Ēastre, the name of a Germanic goddess of spring whose festival was celebrated at the vernal equinox. The Christian celebration took the name when it replaced the pagan festival.