Definition: African-American holiday celebrated each year from December 26 to January 1. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of seven principles (Nguzo Saba): umoja "unity" kujichagulia "self-determination," ujima "collective responsibility," ujamaa "cooperative economics," nia "purpose," kuumba "creativity," and imani "faith." Each evening family members gather to light one of the candles in the kinara, a seven-branched candelabra, and discuss the principle for that day; often gifts are exchanged. A community feast, the karamu, is held on December 31.
Usage: Click here for more information about Kwanzaa.
Suggested Usage: Use this term in greeting your African-American friends who celebrate Kwanzaa. "Happy Kwanzaa!" will do or you may send a Kwanzaa card to express your feelings more deeply.
Etymology: Swahili kwanza "first, in the beginning."
– Dr. Language, YourDictionary.com
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