Chinese calendar

American  

[chahy-neez kal-uhn-der, -nees] / tʃaɪˈniz ˈkæl ən dər, -ˈnis /

noun

1. the traditional calendar of China, in which the year consists of 12 lunar months with an intercalary month added seven times every 19 years to reconcile the lunar year of 354 days with the solar year of 365 days, time being reckoned in 60-year cycles with the first cycle dating from 2637 b.c.

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Etymology

Origin of Chinese calendar

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

Her multicultural church is planning a dinner as part of the coming Lantern Festival, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunisolar Chinese calendar month.

From Washington Post • Jan. 26, 2023

Xu said authorities expect more than 2 billion trips to be made during the weeklong festival season, the most important time for visiting family and friends in the traditional Chinese calendar.

From Washington Times • Jan. 6, 2023

Setting aside their uncertainty, people in Beijing and other cities have returned to work, shopping areas and restaurants, with consumers preparing for January’s Lunar New Year holiday, the most significant in the Chinese calendar.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 31, 2022

Mercury levels will start spiking on Saturday - "Big Heat" day in the traditional Chinese calendar.

From BBC • Jul. 22, 2022

I thought it was a trick question; I was seven according to the American formula and eight by the Chinese calendar.

From "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan