allhallows: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (Archaic/Historical)Formal, Historical, Ecclesiastical, Literary
Quick answer
What does “allhallows” mean?
The feast of All Saints, observed on 1 November.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The feast of All Saints, observed on 1 November.
Can refer to the day itself, the season around it, or be used in historical/ecclesiastical contexts. May also appear in proper nouns (e.g., place names like All Hallows Church).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. In the UK, it might be slightly more recognised due to historical place names and a stronger tradition of marking the date. In the US, the term is extremely rare outside of academic or specific ecclesiastical circles.
Connotations
Both regions: historical, traditional, Christian. UK: may evoke older, rural traditions or specific churches/locations.
Frequency
Exceedingly rare in contemporary usage in both varieties. More likely to be encountered in historical texts, church calendars, or certain proper nouns.
Grammar
How to Use “allhallows” in a Sentence
preposition 'on' + Allhallows (e.g., on Allhallows)of + Allhallows (e.g., the feast of Allhallows)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “allhallows” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Allhallows service is steeped in tradition.
- They followed the Allhallows liturgy.
American English
- The Allhallows Mass will be held at noon.
- He studied Allhallows traditions in medieval Europe.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used.
Academic
Used in historical, theological, or cultural studies discussing medieval or early modern religious practices.
Everyday
Virtually never used. 'Halloween' (from 'All Hallows' Eve') is the common term for the preceding evening.
Technical
Used in ecclesiastical calendars, historical liturgy, and academic religious studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “allhallows”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “allhallows”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “allhallows”
- Misspelling as 'Allhallows' (correct: one word, often capitalised).
- Using it in modern, casual conversation where 'All Saints' Day' or 'Halloween' is appropriate.
- Pronouncing the 'w' in 'hallows' (it is silent).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an archaic term. The modern term is 'All Saints' Day'. 'Allhallows' is found primarily in historical texts, old church names, and some traditional calendars.
Halloween is a contraction of 'All Hallows' Eve', meaning the evening before Allhallows (All Saints' Day) on 1 November.
It is pronounced /ˌɔːlˈhæləʊz/ in British English and /ˌɔːlˈhæloʊz/ in American English. The 'w' in 'hallows' is silent.
Yes, when referring to the specific feast day or as part of a proper name (e.g., All Hallows Church), it is capitalised.
The feast of All Saints, observed on 1 November.
Allhallows is usually formal, historical, ecclesiastical, literary in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Allhallows summer/Allhallows summer (UK) = a period of fine weather in late autumn.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember the connection to 'Halloween' – 'Halloween' is a shortening of 'All Hallows' Eve', the night before Allhallows (All Saints' Day).
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME AS A SACRED CYCLE (the day is a fixed point in the religious calendar marking a holy observance).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most common contemporary synonym for 'Allhallows'?