XMas

XMas is a portmanteau of the words "Christmas" and "X" (the Roman numeral for 10), used to refer to the Christmas season. The term was popularized in the 1950s and 1960s by the advertising industry to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for the holiday season. The use of "X" in place of "Christ" is intended to appeal to a broader audience, including those who may not be religious or who prefer to avoid religious terminology.

The term "XMas" is often used interchangeably with "Christmas," and both terms are widely recognized and accepted. However, the use of "XMas" has been criticized by some as a form of commercialization and secularization of the holiday season. Others argue that it is simply a convenient shorthand for those who prefer to avoid the religious connotations of "Christmas."

The origin of the term "XMas" is unclear, but it is believed to have been first used in the United Kingdom in the mid-20th century. The term has since spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. In some countries, such as Ireland and New Zealand, the use of "XMas" is less common, and "Christmas" is the preferred term.

Despite the controversy surrounding the use of "XMas," it remains a popular and widely recognized term for the Christmas season. Whether or not to use "XMas" is ultimately a matter of personal preference, and both terms are acceptable in most contexts.