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King Robin Posted 20 years ago
Culture

Meaning of "X" in Xmas

Hi

Can any one explain me the meaning of "X" in Xmas and when did they start using this for Christmas.

King.
  

Top answer

Hi King Robin, hope this helps: The idea of using ‘X’ in place of Christ is not a modern idea. In the Modern Roman Alphabet, the first letter of the word ‘Christ’ is ‘chi’ which is represented by a symbol similar to the letter ‘X’. You will frequently see people write Xmas as well as Xian, which means Christian, using the same principle.

— YoHf

  • Hi King Robin, hope this helps: The idea of using ‘X’ in place of Christ is not a modern idea.
  • In the Modern Roman Alphabet, the first letter of the word ‘Christ’ is ‘chi’ which is represented by a symbol similar to the letter ‘X’.
  • You will frequently see people write Xmas as well as Xian, which means Christian, using the same principle.
  • [Cross and Chi -- Two chi's superimposed upon one another.
  • The chi in its normal position represents Christ.
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31 Answers
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Hi King Robin, hope this helps:

The idea of using ‘X’ in place of Christ is not a modern idea. In the Modern Roman Alphabet, the first letter of the word ‘Christ’ is ‘chi’ which is represented by a symbol similar to the letter ‘X’. You will frequently see people write Xmas as well as Xian, which means Christian, using the same principle. [Cross and Chi -- Two chi's superimposed upon one a
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Thanks for enlightening us Jacopo..
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Brilliant exact explanation, a million thanks.Emotion: smile
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You're welcome... Emotion: smile
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Great explanation, Yohf, However, here in the States, the use of the "X" is not normally interchangeable with "Christ." The "X" actually is an attempt (despite its origins, perhaps) to seperate the holiday from any particualar religion. Many stores/business, in particular, feel that it is in their best interests to create a nondenominational opportunity to make a profit.
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Yes, a good explanation. Interesting.
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i once heard someone rebelling against consumerism, saying that 'xmas' takes Christ out of christmas.

also http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?search=xmas
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I thought it meant someone X out Christ name. Not believing in Jesus Christ. Xmas.
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0 It's not seen that way in the UK, Xmas is commonly used by Christians as well. X stands for Christ (from the Greek). In the same way that Christians often use a fish symbol for 'christianity'. No-one says that the fish takes the cross out of Christian symbols. 0-
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