kermess

kermess

A family enjoys the colorful kermess in the town square.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • An outdoor festival or fair: "kermess" refers to a type of outdoor festival or fair, often featuring games, food, and entertainment, traditionally held in Belgium, the Netherlands, and parts of northern France. It originally derived from a church-sponsored celebration or parish fair.
    • A fundraising event: In some contexts, especially in North America, "kermess" can denote a community fundraising event, similar to a bazaar or carnival, organized by a church, school, or social group.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The village held its annual kermess in the town square, with rides and stalls for everyone. (An outdoor festival with amusements and vendors.)
    • Our school's kermess raised money for new playground equipment. (A community fair organized for fundraising.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to host a kermess": to organize or hold such an event.

    • The church hosts a kermess every summer to bring the community together. (The church organizes a festival for social gathering.)

  • "kermess season": the time of year when such fairs are commonly held.

    • During kermess season, many towns have their own unique celebrations. (The period when outdoor fairs are typical.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Kermis (n): an alternate spelling of "kermess," more common in Dutch and Belgian usage.

    • The kermis in Amsterdam is famous for its traditional games. (The Dutch spelling of the same festival.)

  • Kermesse (n): a French-influenced spelling, sometimes used in English contexts.

    • The kermesse featured a parade and local crafts. (A variant spelling, especially in French-speaking areas.)
Synonyms
  • Fair: a public event with entertainment and goods for sale.
  • Festival: a celebration or series of events.
  • Bazaar: a market or sale of goods, often for charity.
  • Carnival: a traveling amusement show with rides and games.
Related Idioms
  • "Kermess spirit": a sense of community celebration and enjoyment.
    • The town was alive with kermess spirit, everyone smiling and participating. (The joyful atmosphere of a local fair.)

Note: No phrasal verbs or compound idioms are commonly associated with "kermess," as it is a specific noun with limited figurative use.