Definition

Proper noun * Three Kings' Day: A Christian feast day celebrated on January 6th, twelve days after Christmas. It commemorates the visit of the Magi (the three wise men or kings) to the infant Jesus, as described in the Gospel of Matthew.

Usage

• Three Kings' Day is primarily used as the name of the holiday itself. It is often used in religious, cultural, and calendar contexts.
• Example: "In many Spanish-speaking countries, Three Kings' Day is when children receive their Christmas gifts, not on December 25th."

Examples

• "Our family celebrates Three Kings' Day with a special meal and by sharing the story of the Magi."
• "The parade for Three Kings' Day featured people dressed as Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar."
• "January 6th is marked on the calendar as Three Kings' Day."

Advanced Usage

• The holiday is also widely known by other names, such as Epiphany or Theophany, which have broader theological meanings in different Christian traditions. Three Kings' Day specifically highlights the narrative of the Magi.
• Example: "While the Eastern churches emphasize the baptism of Jesus on Theophany, the Western tradition often focuses on the Magi, calling it Three Kings' Day."

Variants and Related Words

• Epiphany (proper noun): Another common name for the same January 6th feast, with a focus on the manifestation of God in Jesus Christ.
• Theophany (proper noun): A name used primarily in Eastern Christianity for the feast celebrating the revelation of God.
• Twelfth Night (proper noun): The evening of January 5th, the eve of Three Kings' Day/Epiphany.

Synonyms

• Epiphany
• Theophany
• Twelfth Day

Related Phrases and Idioms

• The Feast of the Epiphany: A formal, alternative name for the holiday.
• Day of the Kings: A direct translation used in some cultural contexts (e.g., Spanish "Día de los Reyes").

Noun

1. twelve days after Christmas; celebrates the visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus