Candlemas

Meanings

1. The festival in the Christian year celebrated on February 2nd. It commemorates the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple.
2. A quarter day in Scotland.

Etymology

From Middle English Candelmasse, from Old English Candelmæsse, equivalent to candle + -mas, following the tradition that the candles to be used in church during the following year are blessed on this day. Compare Old Norse kyndilsmessa (“Candlemas”).