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Backstory: Why do we say "Merry Christmas"? episode artwork

EPISODE · Nov 25, 2018 · 11 MIN

Backstory: Why do we say "Merry Christmas"?

from Christmas Past · host Brian Earl

Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent. Music in this Episode:Gaena: Blue Dot SessionsMarch: Kai EngelDelicant: Podington BearSuppose it Is: Podington BearWish Background: Kevin MacCleod Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your review, get in touch through the contact page at http://christmaspast.media/contact and let me know your Apple Podcasts username and an address where you can receive your sticker. Follow Christmas Past on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Christmas Past is a proud member of the Christmas Podcast Network, a collection of the best Christmas shows around.Connect with Me Links to all the things https://christmaspastpodcast.com/links Email: [email protected] BooksOf Christmases Long, Long Ago: Surprising Traditions from Christmas Past (2025, Lyons Press and Recorded Books) It's Christmas as you've never seen it before, and it makes a great gift for all the Christmas lovers in your life. Christmas Past: The Fascinating Stories Behind Our Favorite Holiday's Traditions (2022, Lyons Press and Recorded Books)

What this episode covers

Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent. Music in this Episode: Gaena: Blue Dot SessionsMarch: Kai EngelDelicant: Podington BearSuppose it Is: Podington BearWish Background: Kevin MacCleod Rate Christmas Past on Apple Podcasts, and I'll send you a sticker to say thanks. After leaving your ...

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Christmas Past?

This episode is 11 minutes long.

When was this Christmas Past episode published?

This episode was published on November 25, 2018.

What is this episode about?

Have you ever wondered why we say "merry Christmas" and not "happy Christmas"? And why the word "merry" seems to exist nowadays only to be used for spreading holiday cheer? We'll get it sorted out with the help of linguist Arika Okrent. Music in...

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