Refers to decorated trees, typically an evergreen tree of pine, balsam, or fir, decorated with candles, lights, and ornaments as a part of Christmas festivities. It is rooted in the use of evergreen trees, wreaths, and garlands to symbolize eternal life, customary among ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Hebrews. In addition, tree worship was common among the pagan Europeans; Scandinavian and German customs surrounding evergreen branches and trees during the midwinter holidays survived their conversion to Christianity. The modern Christmas tree originated in western Germany, around a popular medieval play about Adam and Eve, in which the 'paradise tree' was a fir tree hung with apples, representing the Garden of Eden. The Germans set up a paradise tree in their homes on December 24, the feast day of Adam and Eve. The custom became popular in Victorian England; the symbolism was expanded to include ornaments that referred more directly to Christ's birth. The tradition was taken up by many countries in the Western world. In today's use, it has often lost its original religious significance.
