Xmas is a common abbreviation for Christmas. The “X” comes from the Greek letter Chi, which looks like an X and is the first letter of “Christ” in Greek (Χριστός). So Xmas isn't actually crossing out Christ or disrespecting the holiday. It's using an ancient Christian symbol that goes back hundreds of years.

You'll see Xmas used frequently in signs, advertisements, and greeting cards, especially where space is limited. A store might advertise “Xmas Sale” or someone might write “Merry Xmas” on a card.

Some people prefer writing out “Christmas” in full, feeling it's more respectful or traditional. Others use Xmas without thinking much about it. Both are acceptable ways to refer to the same December holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.