A1noun1K

Birthday

UK /["/ˈbɜːθdeɪ/"]/US /["/ˈbɜːrθdeɪ/"]/

Definition

the day in each year which is the same date as the one on which you were born

In simple words: The day you were born, celebrated every year.

Examples

  • I had a wonderful birthday party last weekend.
  • We celebrate his birthday with a big cake every year.
  • My birthday is in July, so I love summer celebrations.
  • Every birthday makes me feel older and wiser.

Usage notes

Use 'birthday' to refer to the anniversary of someone’s birth. It’s neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, like invitations or greetings. Avoid using it disrespectfully or in a context where someone’s birth is being made fun of.

Grammar pattern

birthday + of + person

Memory hint

Think of 'birth-day' as a special day marking your arrival into the world.

Collocations

  • last
  • next
  • have
  • spend
  • celebrate
  • gift
  • present
  • card
  • for your birthday
  • on your birthday
  • happy birthday!
  • wish somebody a happy birthday

Synonyms

  • anniversary
  • celebration
  • birth anniversary

Antonyms

  • funeral

Common mistakes

  • Forgetting to use 'happy' before 'birthday' in greetings.
  • Confusing 'birthday' with 'anniversary' — they are not the same.
  • Using 'birth day' as two separate words.