Samhain
- proper noun
- UK
- The modern celebrations of Halloween do not take away or alter the spiritual significance of Samhain for pagan practitioners.
- Samhain night
- Celtic celebration of Samhain
Examples
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At sunset on October 31, clans or local villages begin the formal ceremonies of Samhain by lighting a giant bonfire.
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I am well aware of Samhain and the vast history of Halloween.
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As the pagan holiday of Samhain is on November 1st.
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But their celebrations did and still do start at sunset on October 31st on Samhain Eve.
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The Celtic year began with Samhain (now commonly referred to as Halloween).
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In traditional Gaelic culture, Samhain marks the beginning of winter.
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Many families gather in remembrance during Samhain, the month that resonates with the spirit of autumn.
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The ancient celebrations of Samhain are still honored in various festivals today.
Synonyms
A month in the Jewish calendar that usually falls in October and November
Surface Forms
Etymology
Samhain was also the old name for the month around November and it means 'summer's end'. That's why this month marked the start of the colder half of the year and was important for farming and local festivals.