christmas ornament: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Everyday, informal
Quick answer
What does “christmas ornament” mean?
A decorative object designed to be hung on a Christmas tree or displayed during the Christmas season.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A decorative object designed to be hung on a Christmas tree or displayed during the Christmas season.
Any decorative item specifically associated with the festive period of Christmas, including but not limited to tree decorations, window hangings, and mantelpiece displays.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used identically, but 'ornament' alone is slightly more common in UK English (e.g., 'tree ornaments'), while 'Christmas ornament' is the full, unambiguous American term.
Connotations
Associated with family tradition, nostalgia, and festive aesthetics.
Frequency
Higher frequency in spoken and written English during the Christmas season (November–December); low frequency outside this period.
Grammar
How to Use “christmas ornament” in a Sentence
[VERB] + Christmas ornament (e.g., hang, buy, make)[ADJECTIVE] + Christmas ornament (e.g., fragile, antique)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “christmas ornament” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- We need to ornament the tree before the guests arrive.
- She ornamented the hall with festive garlands.
American English
- They ornamented their tree with heirloom pieces.
- He ornamented the fireplace with stockings and figurines.
adverb
British English
- The tree was ornamentally sparse.
- She decorated ornamentally, with a focus on red and gold.
American English
- The mantle was done ornamentally for the holidays.
- He arranged the lights ornamentally around the window.
adjective
British English
- The ornament box was stored in the loft.
- They bought an ornament set from the market.
American English
- The ornament storage containers are colour-coded.
- She browsed the ornament aisle at the store.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in retail, marketing, and manufacturing contexts related to seasonal goods.
Academic
Rare; potentially in cultural studies, anthropology of festivals.
Everyday
Very common in domestic and social contexts during the festive season.
Technical
Used in glassblowing, crafts, and design industries.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “christmas ornament”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “christmas ornament”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “christmas ornament”
- Using 'ornament' alone without 'Christmas' context, leading to ambiguity.
- Confusing with 'Christmas decoration' which can be broader (e.g., lights, tinsel).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'Christmas ornament' typically refers specifically to decorative items hung on a Christmas tree (e.g., baubles, figurines). 'Christmas decoration' is a broader term that includes ornaments, but also lights, tinsel, wreaths, and other festive decor.
Yes, 'ornament' alone means a decorative object, but it loses the specific festive connotation. Without context, it could refer to architectural ornamentation, jewellery, or general decor.
Common materials include glass, plastic, wood, metal, and fabric. They can range from mass-produced items to handmade or heirloom pieces.
The full phrase is used similarly. However, in British English, 'bauble' is a very common standalone word for a tree ornament, whereas in American English, 'ornament' or 'Christmas ornament' is standard.
A decorative object designed to be hung on a Christmas tree or displayed during the Christmas season.
Christmas ornament is usually everyday, informal in register.
Christmas ornament: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪsməs ˌɔːnəmənt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɪsməs ˌɔːrnəmənt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Like a broken Christmas ornament (meaning: fragile, sentimental, ruined)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT = Decorate (ornament) the Xmas (Christmas) tree.
Conceptual Metaphor
TRADITION IS A TANGIBLE OBJECT (e.g., 'They hung the family tradition on the tree').
Practice
Quiz
What is the most specific British English synonym for 'Christmas ornament' when referring to a spherical tree decoration?