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Wintersonnenwende

winter solstice

noun VIN-ter-zon-en-ven-deh Rare
Time Seasons

Usage Note

Wintersonnenwende is the shortest day of the year, around 21 December in the Northern Hemisphere. In German cultural tradition it was celebrated long before the Christian era; today it is associated with Yule and pagan-revival festivals. Contrast with Sommersonnenwende (summer solstice).

Examples

"Zur Wintersonnenwende zünden viele Menschen Kerzen an, um das Licht zurückzurufen."

Natural Translation

At the winter solstice, many people light candles to call the light back.

Literal Translation

At the winter-sun-turning, many people light candles in order to call the light back.

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