Etrennes meaning

Etrennes is a French term referring to gifts or tips given during the holiday season as a token of gratitude or goodwill.


Etrennes definitions

Word backwards sennerte
Part of speech The word "etrennes" is a noun.
Syllabic division e-trennes
Plural The plural of the word "etrennes" is "etrennes."
Total letters 8
Vogais (1) e
Consonants (4) t,r,n,s

Etrennes is a French word that refers to a gift given at New Year's. Derived from the Latin word "strenae," which were offerings made to the gods for protection and good fortune, etrennes have evolved over time to become gifts exchanged among friends and family to wish prosperity and blessings in the upcoming year.

History of Etrennes

The tradition of giving etrennes dates back to ancient Rome, where people would exchange gifts on New Year's Day as a way to bring luck and blessings for the coming year. Over the centuries, this practice spread throughout Europe, with different customs and traditions associated with the giving of etrennes in various countries.

Types of Etrennes

Etrennes can come in various forms, from monetary gifts to small tokens of appreciation. In France, it is common to give etrennes to service workers such as postal carriers, garbage collectors, and newspaper delivery people as a way to thank them for their services throughout the year. Additionally, friends and family may exchange gifts as a symbol of goodwill and love.

Etrennes in Modern Times

In contemporary times, the tradition of giving etrennes has evolved to include a wide range of gifts, from gift cards and cash to personalized items and experiences. While the practice of giving etrennes is not as widespread as it once was, it still holds significance for those who participate in this tradition as a way to show appreciation and spread joy during the holiday season.

Overall, etrennes are a meaningful way to show appreciation and spread goodwill during the New Year. Whether given as a token of gratitude to service workers or as a heartfelt gift to loved ones, the tradition of etrennes continues to be a cherished practice that brings joy and blessings to all involved.

prosperity blessings etrennes tradition


Etrennes Examples

  1. She received generous etrennes from her family for her birthday.
  2. As a tradition, children in France often receive etrennes on New Year's Day.
  3. The etrennes given to service workers during the holiday season are greatly appreciated.
  4. He saved up his allowance to buy etrennes for his friends.
  5. The etrennes collected from the charity event will be used to help those in need.
  6. In some cultures, it is customary to give etrennes to show appreciation for services rendered.
  7. The etrennes she received from her clients were a pleasant surprise.
  8. He decided to give etrennes to his neighbors as a gesture of goodwill.
  9. The delivery person was grateful for the etrennes left for them at the door.
  10. During the holiday season, many people exchange etrennes as a sign of friendship.


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  • Updated 12/07/2024 - 16:47:32