1. a day of festivity or recreation when no work is done; a day set aside by law or custom for celebration
Usage: chiefly British spelling; American English typically uses 'holiday'; often capitalized when referring to specific religious or national observances

Examples

• Christmas is a major holyday celebrated by millions around the world.
• The children were excited about the upcoming school holyday.
• Many businesses close on public holydays.
• She took a holyday to visit her family.
• The holyday season brings joy and festivity to the community.