Pronunciation: [hˈɒlɪdˌe͡ɪz] (IPA) 
The word "holidays" is spelled with a silent "i" between the "l" and "d" which in IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈhɑːlɪdeɪz/. The letter "i" is pronounced as the short "i" sound, while "e" is pronounced as the long "e" sound. The stress is on the first syllable, "hol." This word refers to a period of time when people take a break from work or school to celebrate or rest, often associated with special events or traditions.
Holidays are periods of time that are set aside for leisure, rest, and recreation. They are specific days or longer duration marked on the calendar during which people take a break from their regular work, studies, or daily routine activities. Holidays are usually observed to celebrate or commemorate certain events, traditions, or religious occasions, but they can also serve as a time for relaxation and escape from the usual demands of life.
Typically, holidays are widely observed and recognized by a particular country, society, or culture. They often involve a suspension of business, schools, or government activities, allowing individuals to engage in activities of personal interest or spend time with family and friends. Some holidays have fixed dates, such as Christmas or Independence Day, while others may vary from year to year, depending on lunar or cultural calendars.
Holidays offer opportunities for people to engage in various forms of celebration, such as through religious ceremonies, festive gatherings, or vacation travel. They are often marked by special traditions, customs, feasting, gift-giving, and decorations. Holidays can hold both cultural and personal significance, representing moments of joy, reflection, or remembrance.
Overall, holidays are designated periods of time when individuals and communities come together to take a break from their regular routines, allowing for celebration, relaxation, and the rejuvenation of body and mind.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "holidays" originated from the Old English word "haligdæg", which means "holy day". In Old English, "halig" means "holy" or "sacred", and "dæg" means "day". Initially, the term referred to religious feast days or significant days observed by the church. Over time, the meaning expanded to include non-religious celebrations and days of rest. The word "holidays" has been in use since the Middle English period.
