february

Feb-ru-ar-y · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The second month of the year in the Gregorian calendar, following January and preceding March.

  2. 2.

    A period or instance of this month.

Forms

plural: Februaries

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    February blues — Feelings of sadness or depression during the winter month
  • •
    leap year February — A February with 29 days instead of 28

Related words

See also: january, march, month

Etymology

From Latin Februarius ("month of purification"), from februa ("purifications, expiatory offerings"), referring to the Roman festival of purification Februa held on February 15th. The month was named after this festival of ritual purification.