Michaelmas term is a term used in the British education system, referring to the first term of the academic year. The pronunciation of the word is [ˈmaɪkəlməs tɜːm], with the stress on the second syllable. The first part of the word, "Michaelmas," derives from the Christian feast of St Michael and all the Angels, traditionally celebrated on September 29th. The term is spelled with a "ch" rather than a "k" in the first syllable, reflecting the influence of the Latin "Michaelmas" on the English language.
Michaelmas term refers to a specific academic term within universities and colleges in the United Kingdom and some other countries, particularly those following the British academic system. This term is named after the Christian feast day of Michaelmas, which is celebrated on September 29th. The term usually starts around late September or early October and lasts for approximately ten to twelve weeks, concluding in late December or early January.
Michaelmas term serves as the first term of the academic year, following a summer break and preceding the Christmas break. It is often regarded as a vital and busy period in the academic calendar, with a focus on intensive study and coursework. During this term, students engage in various academic activities such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, and independent research. They may also be required to submit assignments and sit exams, depending on their chosen courses and programs of study.
The term is observed across a range of academic disciplines, including but not limited to law, medicine, sciences, humanities, and social sciences. It is an important time for students to consolidate their knowledge and skills, as they embark on a new academic year or progress further in their studies. Additionally, Michaelmas term provides an opportunity for students to get acquainted with their peers, engage in extracurricular activities, and adjust to the new academic environment.
Overall, Michaelmas term sets the academic pace for the year, allowing for a structured and organized approach to learning while providing students with a solid foundation for their studies.
The term "Michaelmas term" comes from a combination of two words: "Michaelmas" and "term".
1. Michaelmas: Michaelmas is an Old English word that originated from the combination of "Michael", which refers to the Archangel Michael, and "mas", which is short for "mass". Michaelmas is a Christian feast day that falls on September 29th, and it commemorates the Archangel Michael. The term has its roots in medieval England and has been celebrated for centuries.
2. Term: In the context of education, the word "term" refers to an academic period during which classes or lessons are conducted. The term system is commonly used in educational institutions, and each term typically denotes a specific time frame within the academic year.