Welcome to our Christmas vocabulary spotlight on words that start with the letter “A”! Christmas is a season rich with traditions, emotions, and special moments, and so many festive words begin with “A” that capture the magic of the season. From “advent” to “angelic,” these words bring to mind cherished holiday traditions, the warmth of gatherings, and the beauty of winter. Whether you’re creating cards, crafting holiday decor, or simply want to enrich your seasonal vocabulary, this list of “A” Christmas words will help inspire your holiday spirit. Let’s unwrap the Christmas words that start with the letter “A”!
Abeille de Noël
French for “Christmas bee,” used in some regions to symbolize hard work during the holidays.
Abbacchino
This lamb dish is a typical dish Italian dish served on Easter and Christmas.
Abode
Referring to a cozy home decorated for the holidays.
Adorn
To decorate or embellish, often referring to Christmas trees and homes.
Adoration
A feeling of deep love or worship, particularly in religious Christmas traditions.
Adornos
Spanish for ornaments or decorations, commonly used in reference to Christmas tree decor.
Advent
The season leading up to Christmas in Christian tradition.
Advent Calendar
A special calendar used to count down the days until Christmas. This can be bought or handmade.
Advent Wreath
A wreath with candles, used to mark the weeks of Advent leading up to Christmas.
Adventskranz
A German term for an Advent wreath, which holds candles lit during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Affection
Warm feelings of love and care shared with friends and family during Christmas.
Affluence
A state of plenty or wealth, often referenced during Christmas gift-giving.
Aglow
The warm, glowing lights and decorations that brighten homes during Christmas.
Agreement
A sense of harmony or togetherness, often felt during the holiday season.
Aguinaldo
A term used in Spanish-speaking countries, referring to Christmas gifts or bonuses.
Akevit
A Nordic Spirit know as the CHristmas Akevit is not commonly known in the US. This is a crisp spirit is similar to gin or flavored vodka. Flavored with citrus peel, herbs & spices can take on the flavor of a holiday cookie, or seasonal fruit.
Alegría
Spanish for joy or happiness, a common feeling during Christmas celebrations in Spanish-speaking cultures.
Alfenique
A traditional Mexican sugar art used for decoration, especially during festive celebrations.
Alabaster Snowball
In modern Christmas lore, he is one of Santa’s elves in charge of the Naughty & Nice List.
Alberello di Natale
Italian for “Christmas tree.” In Italy, as in many parts of the world, the Christmas tree is an important symbol of the holiday season, and families often decorate it with ornaments, lights, and other festive decorations. The term combines “alberello,” which means “little tree,” and “Natale,” which means “Christmas.”
The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree in Italy is especially popular, particularly in the northern regions, and often takes place on December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, marking the beginning of the holiday season.
Allahabadi Cake
A traditional Indian fruitcake that is popular during Christmas This cake is unique because it blends Indian flavors and ingredients with the traditional elements of a Western fruitcake.
Key ingredients often include: flour, butter, rum or brandy, dried fruits and nuts, candied fruits, sugar, and spices.
The cake is rich, dense, and aromatic, combining the spicy and sweet flavors characteristic of Christmas cakes with an Indian twist.
Allspice
A spice used in Christmas baking and cooking. Most popular dishes, drinks and desserts that use it include gingerbread cookies, mulled wine, pumpkin pie, egg nog, fruit cake, spiced apple cider, and Christmas pudding.
Allure
The allure of Christmas magic and mystery is what makes Christmas what it is to the kids. Who am I kidding it makes it magical for us adults too.
Allegiance
Loyalty to family, faith, or traditions during Christmas.
Almonds
Almonds have a long history of being associated with Christmas traditions, especially in European cultures. They are used in a variety of holiday treats and customs due to their rich, nutty flavor and versatility. Here are some ways almonds relate to Christmas:
Marzipan– A almond paste popular during Christmas, especially in countries like Germany and Spain. It’s often molded into festive shapes or used as a filling in cakes and pastries.
Almond Spritz Cookies – A buttery, almond-flavored cookie that’s commonly made during the holiday season, particularly in Scandinavian and German households.
Stollen – A traditional German Christmas bread made with dried fruits, nuts (often almonds), and sometimes marzipan.
Mandelhörnchen (Almond Horns) – These almond-flavored crescent cookies are often enjoyed during Christmas in German-speaking regions.
Roasted Almonds – In many European Christmas markets, you’ll find vendors selling Gebrannte Mandeln, or roasted sugar-coated almonds, a popular snack during the holiday season.
Christmas Porridge (Risalamande) – In Denmark, a traditional Christmas dessert called Risalamande is made with rice pudding, whipped cream, and chopped almonds. A whole almond is hidden in the pudding, and the person who finds it gets a small prize, usually a marzipan pig.
Baking and Sweets – Almonds are used in many holiday baking recipes, such as almond biscotti, almond tarts, and spiced nut mixes, making them a central ingredient in Christmas desserts and snacks.
Almond Spritz Cookies
As stated above this is a traditional holiday cookies often associated with Christmas. These cookies are buttery, almond-flavored, and typically made using a cookie press to form festive shapes like stars, trees, or wreaths. They are popular during Christmas for their decorative appearance and are sometimes topped with colored sugar or frosting, making them a festive treat for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Their association with Christmas stems from their festive shapes and long-standing tradition in holiday baking, especially in European and American households.
Aloe
While the Christmas Aloe isn’t directly associated with traditional Christmas symbols it is very popular during the winter months especially in the southwest US. The reason for the name is due to the tendency for it to bloom during the winter months particularly around Christmas.
Almsgiving
The act of giving to those in need, a common tradition during the holiday season. A lot of us do this by donating to charities, giving to the poor, and volunteering. In Christian tradition, it is often linked to the biblical teachings of Christ, who emphasized caring for the poor and marginalized. During Christmas, this practice helps reinforce the spirit of giving and sharing.
Alvin & the Chipmunks
Alvin and the Chipmunks have a well-known association with Christmas, thanks to their famous holiday song, “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late),” which became a classic Christmas tune. The song was first released in 1958 and was a massive hit, contributing to the popularity of Alvin, Simon, and Theodore, the three chipmunk characters created by Ross Bagdasarian Sr., who also voiced them.
The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” is about the Chipmunks eagerly anticipating Christmas and wanting presents, like a hula hoop, but Alvin in particular keeps getting distracted. The high-pitched voices and playful lyrics became an instant holiday favorite. The song topped the charts and won three Grammy Awards.
Amaryllis
A flower often associated with holiday decorations due to its winter bloom and its beautiful red and white varieties.
NOTE: if you have pets don’t get these as they are poisonous to animals.
Ambrosia Salad
In many American families, particularly in the South, Ambrosia Salad has become a holiday staple. It’s commonly served during Christmas dinners or as a dessert, adding a fresh, fruity contrast to the heavier holiday foods.
It typically contains a mix of sweet, tropical fruits such as oranges, pineapple, and coconut, along with marshmallows, whipped cream, or sour cream. Some versions also include cherries, nuts (like pecans), or even shredded coconut, which can resemble snow, making it look festive for Christmas. What is great about it is it’s a simple, no-bake recipe, making it easy to prepare during the busy holiday season.
Amigo Secreto
Meaning “Secret Friend” in Portuguese, similar to Secret Santa in Brazil and other Portuguese-speaking regions.
Angel
Angels have a deep connection to Christmas, playing a significant role in both religious and cultural celebrations. Their presence in Christmas traditions comes from the biblical narrative of the Nativity, as well as their symbolic representation of peace, protection, and joy during the holiday season.
Ange de Noël
French for “Christmas angel.”
Anisette – An anise-flavored liquor with a distinctive licorice taste. Enjoyed around the holidays like Christmas in Mediterranean and European countries.
Anise
A spice used in holiday baking, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
Annunciation
In Christian tradition, the announcement by the angel Gabriel to Mary about the birth of Jesus.
Anticipation
The anticipation and excitement leading up to Christmas morning.
Antlers
Santa’s reindeer have antlers. Ironically all Santa’s reindeer are female as male reindeer loose there antlers in the winter and only females keep theirs until spring.
Apfelstrudel
Austrian apple pastry often enjoyed during the holiday season.
Apparel
Festive clothing, like Christmas ugly sweaters.
Appreciation
A feeling of gratitude, common during the holiday season.
Apples
Apples are used in many ways during the Christmas holidays. From drinks, to pie & cake, even in stuffing.
Apple Cake
Also Called Apfelkuchen in Germany is an old-fashioned dessert that is enjoyed in the winter months and popular during Christmas.
Apricot
Typically a summer fruit apricots play a role in various Christmas dishes and desserts, particularly in European and Middle Eastern traditions.
Apricot Almond Torte
The Apricot Almond Torte is rooted in European pastry traditions, particularly in countries like Germany and Austria, where apricots and almonds are common ingredients in Christmas baking.
Aroma
The pleasant smells of holiday foods and spices, as well as trees, cinnamon, and holiday candles.
Arbolito
The Spanish word for “little tree,” and it is often used as a term of endearment or affection for the Christmas tree in Spanish-speaking countries. The Arbolito de Navidad is central to Christmas celebrations in many Latin American and Spanish cultures, just like in other parts of the world.
Arctic
Referring to the cold, snowy regions associated with Santa Claus.
Aperitivo
An Italian word for a small appetizer, often part of holiday feasts.
Arlequín
A traditional character from Spanish or Latin American celebrations, often seen in parades or events during the holiday season.
Arrullo
Spanish for a soothing lullaby, sometimes used in reference to Christmas carols for
the baby Jesus.
Arroz con Pollo
Spanish for rice with chicken. This popular Latin American and Spanish dish that combines chicken with seasoned rice. This dish is served during Christmas and other festive occasions.
Árbol de Navidad
Spanish for Christmas tree. This symbol of Christmas is a cherished and central part of celebrations.
Artificial Tree
A non-living Christmas tree. They use to be mainly metal, twisted wire and PVC strips for the needles. Though that wasn’t wat they were always made from. You may be surprised to know instead of PVC they use to use goose feathers. The artificial tree cam about due to the concern of deforestation and safety (dry needles Are a fire hazard). Now a majority of artificial trees are pre lit and look almost as good as the real thing. My question for you is, When do you take your tree down?
Aspen
A popular Christmas holiday destination in Colorado, USA.
Aspire
Hoping or dreaming, often tied to Christmas wishes. This is the season when many people reflect on their values, hopes, and dreams. Usually aspiring to be kind and generous, to spread joy and peace, and to connect with loved ones.
Asalto Navideño
Asalto Navideño, or “Christmas Assault,” is a lively holiday tradition in Puerto Rico and some other Latin American countries. It’s similar to caroling but with a distinctly festive, social twist.
Asado
In many South American countries, especially Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile, asado is a popular and beloved way to celebrate Christmas. Instead of the traditional roasted turkey or ham seen in many other parts of the world, families gather for an asado, making Christmas a festive, outdoor celebration filled with food, family, and friends. An asado consisting usually of beef, chicken, chorizo, pork, and morcilla; all of which are cooked using an open fire or a grill, called a parrilla
Atole
Atole is a traditional Mexican drink made from corn masa, water or milk, and sweetened with sugar or piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). Often flavored with cinnamon, vanilla, or chocolate. Atole is thick, creamy, and served hot, making it especially popular during colder months and holiday celebrations like Christmas.
Aufschnitt
A German word for cold cuts or sliced meats often served during holiday meals.
Auld Lang Syne
A Scottish phrase meaning “times gone by,” often sung at the end of the year and around the holidays.
Aureole
An aureole is a halo or radiant light that often appears around the head or body of holy or sacred figures in religious art, symbolizing their divinity, holiness, or enlightenment.
Aunt Clara
A character from the movie A Christmas Carol.
That is my list of more then 50 Christmas words that start with the letter “A”. As you go though this list, and hopefully the others in the links below, you will get a chance to comment and share any you have found interesting.
