Definition

Proper noun: * Santa Claus; Father Christmas: A legendary figure, originating from Saint Nicholas, who is said to bring gifts to well-behaved children on Christmas Eve.

Usage

• "Kriss Kringle" is used as a name for the Christmas gift-bringer, synonymous with Santa Claus. It is often used in stories, songs, and casual conversation, particularly in American English.
• It functions as a proper noun and is typically capitalized.

Examples

• The children left cookies and milk out for Kriss Kringle.
• In the old song, it says, "He knows if you've been bad or good, so be good for goodness' sake!" referring to Kriss Kringle.
• The department store hired a man to dress as Kriss Kringle for the holiday season.

Advanced Usage

• The term can sometimes be used metonymically to refer to the spirit of Christmas gift-giving itself.
  • The office party had a Kriss Kringle gift exchange. (Here, it refers to the tradition of secret gift-giving, often called "Secret Santa.")

Variants and Related Words

• Santa Claus: The most common modern name for the same figure.
• Saint Nicholas: The historical saint who inspired the legend.
• Father Christmas: The common British English name for the figure.
• Saint Nick: A common informal variant.

Synonyms

• Santa Claus
• Father Christmas
• Saint Nick
• The Christmas Man
• The Jolly Old Elf

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Waiting for Kriss Kringle: Eagerly anticipating Christmas or Christmas gifts.
  • The kids have been waiting for Kriss Kringle all month.
• The spirit of Kriss Kringle: The generous and joyful feeling associated with Christmas giving.
  • Let's all try to show the spirit of Kriss Kringle this year and help those in need.

Noun

1. the legendary patron saint of children; an imaginary being who is thought to bring presents to children at Christmas