Main Entry: Can·dle·mas

Pronunciation: \ˈkan-d^əl-məs\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English candelmasse, from Old English candelmæsse, from candel + mæsse mass, feast; from the candles blessed and carried in celebration of the feast

Date: before 12th century

: February 2 observed as a church festival in commemoration of the presentation of Christ in the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary