2006-12-01 05:16:23 · 7 answers · asked by jemz 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Holidays ➔ Other - Holidays
Santa = Saint
2006-12-01 05:43:58 · answer #1 · answered by blondie 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are websites that explain the history of Santa Clause, which are basically traditional stories passed on and modified. As for the term, "Santa," funny how this is used, being that Santa is the feminine term for a woman saint. There is Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, Santa Ana, Santa Monica, etc. So why use the term, "Santa" with a man in a big red suit? Should be San Clause or Santo Clause, no?
2006-12-01 05:23:58 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Santa is a child-like (easy) way of saying "Saint". It is also a latin derivative for Saint; examples Santa Ana, Santa Maria, Santa Monica, etcetera
Allegedly it is short for one of the first Santa Clauses; Saint Nicholas
2006-12-01 05:22:44 · answer #3 · answered by MrsOcultyThomas 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Santa first came to North America with the Dutch who colonized New York state (the city of New York was originally called New Amsterdam). In Holland, children call him Sinter Klaas. The English-speaking children heard this and thought it sounded like Santa Claus, and that's the name that stuck.
2006-12-01 05:30:16 · answer #4 · answered by Scott F 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
THE HISTORY OF SANTA CLAUS
Santa Claus hasn't always looked like the jolly old fellow we know today. Like so many other American traditions, he's a product of the great American melting pot - a blend of many different cultures and customs. His earliest ancestors date back to pre-Christian days, when sky-riding gods ruled the earth. The mythological characters Odin, Thor, and Saturn gave us the basis for many of Santa's distinctive characteristics.
But the most influential figure in the shaping of today's generous as loving Santa Claus was a real man. St. Nicholas of Myra (now Turkey), a fourth century bishop. As a champion of children and the needy, he was legendary for his kindness and generosity.
2006-12-01 05:22:00 · answer #5 · answered by alicias7768 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think Santa is better called Santa. It wouldn't be very nice if his name is Satan instead of Santa.
2006-12-01 05:18:21 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's a derivative of Saint
2006-12-01 05:19:01 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋