Even after the decorations come down, Christmas quietly stays in our language. Over centuries, winter celebrations, gift-giving, feasts, and family gatherings have shaped expressions we still use long after the season ends. Some phrases grew from old traditions, while others reflect the emotions Christmas brings — generosity, warmth, pressure, and even excess. Together, these idioms show how a festival can leave its mark on everyday English.
Christmas comes but once a year
Meaning: Enjoy something special without worrying too much.
Example: She had an extra dessert — after all, Christmas comes but once a year.
Like Christmas came early
Meaning: An unexpected pleasant surprise.
Example: The sudden holiday announcement felt like Christmas came early.
Save something for a rainy day
Meaning: Keep resources for future need.
Example: He saved part of his bonus for a rainy day.
Deck the halls
Meaning: To decorate enthusiastically.
Example: The class decked the halls for the annual fest.
No room at the inn
Meaning: No space or opportunity left.
Example: The hostel was full — there was no room at the inn.
Eat, drink, and be merry
Meaning: Enjoy life freely.
Example: After exams, it was time to eat, drink, and be merry.
A white Christmas
Meaning: An ideal or perfect celebration.
Example: The snowfall gave them a picture-perfect white Christmas.
Spread goodwill
Meaning: Show kindness and generosity.
Example: The drive aimed to spread goodwill among students.
Good cheer
Meaning: A happy, positive mood.
Example: Music filled the room with good cheer.
Like turkeys voting for Christmas
Meaning: Supporting something that harms you.
Example: Skipping revision week was like turkeys voting for Christmas.
Feast your eyes
Meaning: Look at something with great pleasure.
Example: Feast your eyes on the art display.
Ring in the season
Meaning: Celebrate the start of a festive time.
Example: The choir helped ring in the season.
Season of giving
Meaning: A time for generosity.
Example: Volunteers embraced the season of giving.
All the trimmings
Meaning: Everything included, nothing missing.
Example: The celebration came with all the trimmings.