Candlemas

noun

Can·​dle·​mas ˈkan-dᵊl-məs How to pronounce Candlemas (audio)
: February 2 observed as a church festival in commemoration of the presentation of Christ in the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary

Examples of Candlemas in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,Winter will not come again. — Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 2 Feb. 2025 Groundhog Day is rooted in the Christian holiday Candlemas, the midway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. — Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 2 Feb. 2026 Groundhog Day is rooted in the Christian holiday Candlemas, the midway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox. — Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 The image was taken above Candlemas and Vindication Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean. — Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 24 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Candlemas

Word History

Etymology

Middle English candelmasse, from Old English candelmæsse, from candel + mæsse mass, feast; from the candles blessed and carried in celebration of the feast

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Candlemas was before the 12th century

Rhymes for Candlemas

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Browse Nearby Words

candlemaker
Candlemas
Candlemas term
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Cite this Entry

“Candlemas.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Candlemas. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

Candlemas

noun
Can·​dle·​mas ˈkan-dᵊl-məs How to pronounce Candlemas (audio)
: February 2 observed as a Christian festival in honor of the presentation of Christ in the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary

More from Merriam-Webster on Candlemas

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Candlemas

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