Whit, n.3
(hwɪt)
[The first element of Whitsun, Whit Sunday, etc.]
= Whitsun 1, Whitsuntide. Whit walk, a Whitsuntide event in which church congregations walk in procession through the streets.
For Whit Monday, etc., and Whit-week see s.v. Whit Sunday, Whitsunday.
| 1959 I. & P. Opie Lore & Lang. Schoolch. xii. 232 Well-dressing,..and the children's great Whit walks in Manchester and elsewhere, are undoubtedly exciting occasions in the lives of local youngsters. 1963 Times 5 June 7/1 (heading) Whit road toll down by 19. 1976 Nichols & Armstrong Workers Divided 108 This morning our foreman told us that we've got to work Whit Bank Holiday. 1978 P. Bailey Leisure & Class in Victorian Eng. ii. 46 The popular holiday ritual of the Whit walks—street processions of witness complete with flags and decorations and marching bands. 1979 Guardian 30 May 10/8 In Lancashire... Whit Walks in most towns and many villages. |