festejar

Festejar is a Spanish verb meaning to celebrate, to honor, or to fête. It is used to describe the act of marking a special occasion such as a birthday, a holiday, a victory, or any event associated with merriment. The term often implies a festive or communal dimension, not merely acknowledgment.

Etymology and form: Festejar derives from the noun festejo, related to festum or festa meaning “feast” or “festival,” with the -ar verb suffix added in Spanish. It is a regular -ar verb, with standard conjugation patterns. In present tense: yo festejo, tú festejas, él festeja, nosotros festejamos, vosotros festejáis, ellos festejan. In preterite: festejé, festejaste, festejó, festejamos, festejasteis, festejaron.

Usage and nuance: Festejar often conveys a sense of public or social celebration, such as organizing a party or participating in festivities. It can be synonymous with “celebrar” but tends to emphasize joy and sociability. In some contexts, “festejar” carries a lighter or more festive tone; “celebrar” may be more neutral or formal. Regional usage varies; both verbs are common in Spanish-speaking countries.

Examples and related terms: Examples include “Vamos a festejar su logro” (We are going to celebrate his achievement) and “festejar un cumpleaños” or “festejar la victoria.” Related nouns include festejo and celebración; related verbs include celebrar, conmemorar, y honrar. See also fiesta, celebración, conmemoración.