holiday
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈhɒlɪdeɪ/
KK: /ˈhɑlɪˌdeɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take a break from work or school, often for leisure or travel.
Example
We decided to holiday in Spain this summer.
Tense Forms
Past: holidayed
Past Participle: holidayed
Conversation
Are you planning to holiday somewhere nice this year?
Yeah, I'm thinking about a beach trip in Spain.
That sounds amazing! I wish I could holiday with you.
You should definitely join — the more, the merrier!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vacation
recess
break
Antonyms
work
labor
strive
noun
Definition
A special day when people do not work, often to celebrate or remember something important.
Example
We are going to the beach for the holiday next week.
Conversation
Are you planning anything special for the upcoming holiday?
Yeah, I might go visit my family for a few days.
That sounds great! I love spending time with family during holidays.
Root Explanation
Holiday → It originates from the Old English 'haligdæg', where 'halig' (meaning holy) and 'dæg' (meaning day) combine. Originally, it referred to a holy day or a day of religious observance.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'holy day' — 'halig' means holy and 'dæg' means day. This helps you remember that a holiday is a special day often set aside for celebration or rest.
Visually Confused Words
unholiday
holyday
proholiday
preholiday
solidary