name
Kwanzaa
KWAHN-zuh
name
1
A week-long African-American cultural celebration held from December 26 to January 1, honouring African heritage and community values.
"Each night of Kwanzaa, the family lights a candle and discusses one of the seven principles."
"Kwanzaa decorations filled the community centre alongside the usual holiday displays."
How to Use Kwanzaa
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA modern African-American holiday celebrating heritage, family, and community, distinct from Christmas or Hanukkah though celebrated in the same season.
Common mistake
Not a religious holiday — it's cultural, and many who celebrate Kwanzaa also celebrate Christmas.
Word Forms
Kwanzaas plural
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Each night of _____, the family lights a candle and discusses one of the seven principles.
Etymology
Coined in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits"; an extra "a" was added so the word would have seven letters, matching Kwanzaa's seven guiding principles.