Hogmanay

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Hogmanay

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

hog-muh-NAY  /ˌhɒɡməˈneɪ/

Definition

The Scottish word for New Year's Eve (31st December) and the associated celebrations and festivities that traditionally extend through New Year's Day and beyond. Hogmanay is a major cultural celebration in Scotland, historically more significant than Christmas in Scottish tradition.

Plain meaning

Hogmanay is the Scottish name for New Year's Eve and the New Year celebrations that follow it. In Scotland, Hogmanay has traditionally been a bigger celebration than Christmas — involving parties, street celebrations, whisky, and the custom of first-footing (being the first person to cross a neighbour's threshold after midnight).

Register

Scottish English and cultural. Hogmanay is widely understood in British English as a Scottish word for New Year celebrations. It is used in Scottish cultural contexts, journalism, and internationally to describe the Edinburgh and Glasgow New Year celebrations. The word carries strong positive cultural associations with Scotland.