Definition

Proper noun A day, traditionally observed on February 14th, dedicated to the celebration of romantic love and affection, often marked by the exchange of gifts, cards (valentines), flowers, or other tokens of sentiment.

Usage

This term refers specifically to the annual holiday. It is always capitalized as it is a proper noun. * We are going out for a special dinner on St Valentine's Day. * The children exchanged small cards for St Valentine's Day. * Many stores begin their St Valentine's Day promotions in January.

Advanced Usage

• "St Valentine's Day massacre": This phrase historically refers to the 1929 gangland shooting in Chicago, but it is sometimes used humorously or hyperbolically to describe a disastrous or disappointing romantic event on the holiday.
  • His failed proposal turned their romantic evening into a personal St Valentine's Day massacre.

Variants and Related Words

• Valentine's Day: A very common shortened form, often used interchangeably with "St Valentine's Day."
• Valentine (noun): 1. A greeting card or small gift given on this day. 2. A person to whom one sends such a card or gift, often a sweetheart.
  • She received a beautiful valentine from a secret admirer.
• Valentine (noun): A representation of Cupid or a heart, symbolizing the holiday.

Synonyms

• February 14
• The Feast of Saint Valentine (formal/religious context)

Related Phrases

• Be my Valentine: A traditional romantic request or declaration made on this day.
  • The card simply said, "Will you be my Valentine?"

Noun

1. a day for the exchange of tokens of affection