Vesel božič
Merry Christmas in Slovenian is Vesel božič.
The phrase Vesel božič! is commonly used as a standalone exclamation or a greeting throughout the Christmas holiday season.
Meaning: good wishes at Christmas time (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective vesel, which means merry or happy and the noun božič, which means Christmas.
Did you know?
- The word božič contains a hidden connection to the divine, as it is built from the root for 'god' and a diminutive suffix, effectively meaning 'little god'.
- Slovenian culture traditionally places a heavy emphasis on the 'Christmas Eve' feast, and Vesel božič is frequently said during the meal rather than just upon arrival.
- While Vesel božič is the standard greeting, some Slovenians use the more formal Primite moje najlepše božične želje, which translates to 'Receive my most beautiful Christmas wishes'.
Examples in context
- Hvala za vse, Luka! Božično veselje naj te spremlja v novem letu!Thank you for everything, Luka! May Christmas joy accompany you in the new year!
- Želim vam vesel božič in srečno novo leto.I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Example conversation
Matic and Zala meet on the street before Christmas.
- MaticŽivjo, Zala! Vesel božič!Hi Zala! Merry Christmas!
- ZalaHvala, Matic! Tudi tebi vesel božič!Thanks, Matic! Merry Christmas to you too!
- MaticAli greš na praznike domov?Are you going home for the holidays?
- ZalaDa, grem jutri z vlakom.Yes, I am going by train tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “merry Christmas” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries božič, vesel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
