Holyday vs. Holiday: The Correct Spellings

To spell "holiday" correctly, you can remember that it's a combination of "holy" and "day," but without the "y" in "holy." Alternatively, think of the joyous days you get off from work, where you'd say "hooray" and combine it with "day" to get "holiday."

The correct spelling is "holiday," while "holyday" is an often-made error. The difference between the two lies in the context. Historically, "holy day" was a term denoting religious observances, but in modern usage, it has converged into the singular word "holiday." The term "holiday" derives from Old English, "hāligdæg," with "hālig" meaning holy and "dæg" meaning day. Over time, its usage has expanded to include any day of exemption from work, not just religious observances.

Incorrect: The office is closed for a national holyday.

Correct: The office is closed for a national holiday.

Incorrect: We're planning a trip on the next holyday.

Correct: We're planning a trip on the next holiday.

Incorrect: The holyday season is a time for giving and sharing.

Correct: The holiday season is a time for giving and sharing.

Incorrect: I get extra pay for working on a holyday.

Correct: I get extra pay for working on a holiday.

A day fixed by law or custom on which ordinary activities are suspended in commemoration.

A break from work or school.

An extended period of leisure and recreation, especially when spent away from home.

A day free from work that one may spend at leisure, especially a day on which custom or the law dictates a halting of general business activity to commemorate or celebrate a particular event.

A religious feast day; a holy day.

Chiefly British A vacation. Often used in the phrase on holiday.

To pass a holiday or vacation.

A day on which a festival, religious event, or national celebration is traditionally observed.

A day declared free from work by the state or government.

A period of one or more days taken off work for leisure and often travel; often plural.

A period during which pupils do not attend their school; often plural; rarely used for students at university (usually: vacation).

(finance) A period during which, by agreement, the usual payments are not made.

A gap in coverage, e.g. of paint on a surface, or sonar imagery.

(intransitive) To take a period of time away from work or study.

To spend a period of time in recreational travel.

A consecrated day; religious anniversary; a day set apart in honor of some person, or in commemoration of some event. See Holyday.

A day of exemption from labor; a day of amusement and gayety; a festival day.

A day fixed by law for suspension of business; a legal holiday.

Of or pertaining to a festival; cheerful; joyous; gay.

Occurring rarely; adapted for a special occasion.

leisure time away from work devoted to rest or pleasure;

a day on which work is suspended by law or custom;

spend or take a vacation

A day of celebration or remembrance, often when work is suspended.

A period of leisure or recreation, especially one spent away from home.

Many people travel to new places during their holiday.

The holiday lights made the city look magical.

She spent her holiday reading her favorite books.

He went camping in the mountains for his holiday.

Decorating the house is a big part of holiday traditions.

Holiday meals are a time for indulgence and feasting.

People often exchange gifts during holiday celebrations.

The anticipation of a holiday can bring joy and excitement.

Some people prefer a quiet holiday at home over traveling.

Holiday markets are filled with unique gifts and treats.

Many cultures have their own specific holiday customs and foods.

Holiday memories often last a lifetime and are cherished by families.

The holiday spirit is about kindness, generosity, and goodwill.

Taking a holiday can help reduce stress and rejuvenate the mind.

Planning a holiday can be just as exciting as the trip itself.

The holiday season is known for its festive music and cheer.

A holiday by the sea is a popular choice for many.

The period around the end of the year that includes several holidays such as Christmas and New Year's.

A public holiday when banks and many other businesses are closed for the day.

To take a break or vacation from regular work or routines.

The British term for being on vacation.

Customs and practices that are repeated every holiday season.

A large meal prepared and enjoyed during a holiday.

The happiness and merriment associated with holiday times.

The general feeling of joy and generosity that pervades during holiday seasons.

The feeling of sadness or depression that can occur after the holidays are over.

A long break taken during the summer months, especially by students.

The mindset of relaxing and taking things easy, often associated with being on vacation.

A message or wish shared during holidays, expressing good wishes.

A short holiday or trip, usually for relaxation or enjoyment.

A holiday that takes place during the winter season, often associated with Christmas and New Year's.

A romantic relationship that occurs or is initiated during a holiday.

The period immediately following a holiday.

The hectic period before holidays when people are busy preparing and shopping.

The special, often inexplicable joy and wonder that comes with holiday seasons.

To make a holiday last longer than originally planned.

The exhaustion or letdown that can follow after the holidays are over.

People often mistakenly use "holyday," influenced by the words "holy" and "day."

No, "holiday" can refer to any day of celebration or leisure, not just religious events.

No, "holyday" is an incorrect spelling. The correct spelling is "holiday."

The word "holiday" comes from Old English "hāligdæg," which means "holy day."

"Holyday" can be viewed as an archaic term for religious observances, while "holiday" is a modern term referring to a day off or a vacation.

Yes, "holidays" is a plural form, and "holidaying" can be used to describe the act of taking a vacation.

Yes, in many parts of the world, "holiday" is synonymous with "vacation."

One could say: "We're planning a two-week holiday in Hawaii next summer."

Historical or religious contexts might prompt someone to use "holyday," but it's less common in modern English.

Certainly! Synonyms for "holiday" include vacation, break, recess, and leave.