ˈkand ə lməs, -ˈaa- also -ˌmas noun
( plural candlemases )
Usage: usually capitalized, often attributive
Etymology: Middle English candelmasse, from Old English candelmæsse, from candel candle + mæsse mass, feast; from the candles blessed and carried in procession in celebration of the feast — more at mass
1.
a. : the church feast celebrated on February 2 in commemoration of the presentation of Christ in the temple
b. : this feast commemorating additionally in the Roman Catholic Church the purification of the Virgin Mary
c. : this feast commemorating additionally in the Eastern Orthodox Church the meeting with Simeon and Anna
2. or candlemas day usually capitalized C&D : groundhog day