Epiphany
Noun
Definition: A Christian feast celebrating the manifestation of the divine nature of Jesus to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi.
Definition: A sudden realization or comprehension, often accompanied by a feeling of enlightenment.
Synonyms: Revelation, Enlightenment, Realization
Antonyms: Ignorance, Misunderstanding
- Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th in many Christian traditions.
- He had an epiphany and finally understood the solution to the problem.
- "Epiphany" sounds like "a-faun-ee", and the 'faun' can represent a sudden appearance or revelation.
Etymology:
The word "epiphany" comes from the Greek word "epiphaneia", meaning manifestation or appearance. It originally referred to the feast day celebrating the baptism of Jesus in early Christianity, but later came to refer to the visit of the Magi as well.
Historical Usage:The word has been used to describe the Christian feast since the 3rd century, and the broader meaning of a sudden revelation or understanding has been in use since the 17th century.
Related Idioms:
"Have an epiphany"
Explanation:To experience a sudden realization or understanding about something.
Misconceptions:
Confusing the Christian feast with the broader meaning of "epiphany".
Explanation:While the original meaning of "epiphany" is related to the Christian feast, it has also come to be used more broadly to describe any sudden realization or comprehension.