Calender vs. Calendar – Which is Correct?
The correct spelling for the system used to organize days, weeks, and months is calendar. The word calender refers to a machine used to smooth or glaze materials like paper or fabric, and is a distinctly different term often confused due to similar pronunciation and spelling.
Calendar or Calender – Which is Correct?
The confusion between “calendar” and “calender” primarily stems from their similar sounds and visual appearance. However, they refer to entirely different concepts. Calendar, with an ‘a’ in the second syllable, is the universally accepted spelling for the chart or series of pages showing the days, weeks, and months of a particular year, or a system of arranging time.
On the other hand, calender, with an ‘e’ in the second syllable, describes a heavy-duty machine that uses rollers to press and smooth materials such as paper, textiles, or plastic films. While a valid word, it is not interchangeable with “calendar” and is almost certainly not the word you intend when referring to dates and time.
| Word | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calendar | Noun | A chart or system for organizing days, weeks, and months. | I marked the appointment on my calendar. |
| Calender | Noun / Verb | A machine for pressing and smoothing materials; to press or smooth with such a machine. | The paper was fed through the calender to achieve a glossy finish. |
How to Use Calendar
The word “calendar” is a noun that refers to a system of organizing time, a schedule, or a physical representation of days. It is used in both formal and informal contexts to denote time-related arrangements.
Example 1: Please check your calendar to see if you are available next Tuesday.
Example 2: The company’s fiscal year follows a different calendar than the standard Gregorian one.
Example 3: We bought a beautiful wall calendar featuring landscapes from around the world.
What are the different forms of Calendar?
As a noun, “calendar” primarily changes form for pluralization:
- Singular: calendar (e.g., one calendar)
- Plural: calendars (e.g., multiple calendars)
It can also be used attributively, modifying another noun (e.g., calendar year, calendar event).
Etymology of the word Calendar
The word “calendar” originates from the Old French calendier, which in turn came from the Latin kalendarium, meaning “account book” or “register.” This Latin term was derived from kalendae, referring to the “calends” or the first day of the month in the Roman calendar, when accounts were due. This etymology highlights its historical connection to reckoning and organizing time.
Related Concepts
The confusion between “calendar” and “calender” highlights the importance of precise spelling and understanding the distinct meanings of homophones or near-homophones. While not true homophones, their similar sounds can lead to common spelling errors. Always double-check words that sound alike but have different spellings and meanings to ensure your communication is clear and accurate. This is particularly crucial in professional settings where precision is valued.
Similarly, understanding the nuances of capitalization and pluralization, such as with Mondays vs. Mondays, is key for clear communication.
Examples from Media and Literature
- “Every page of the calendar was a leaf, turning in the wind of time.” – The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (adapted)
- “The new year often brings with it the promise of a clean slate and a fresh calendar of opportunities.” – News article on New Year’s resolutions
- “She consulted her digital calendar on her phone, confirming the meeting time.” – Contemporary novel excerpt
- “I keep a busy social calendar, so planning ahead is essential.” – Interview with a celebrity
- “The ancient Mayan calendar is famous for its intricate system of cycles and predictions.” – Documentary narration
Calendar Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Schedule | A plan for carrying out a process or procedure, giving lists of intended events and times. |
| Agenda | A list of items to be discussed at a formal meeting. |
| Diary | A book with blank pages for recording appointments or notes for particular days. |
| Planner | A book or software for organizing tasks and appointments. |
| Almanac | An annual publication containing a calendar and other important dates and statistical information. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Is “calender” ever correct?
Yes, “calender” is a correct word, but it refers to a machine used for pressing and smoothing materials like paper or fabric, or the act of using such a machine. It is not a synonym or alternative spelling for the time-keeping device.
Question 2: How can I remember the correct spelling for the time-keeping device?
A simple mnemonic is to remember that a “calendar” helps you remember important “dates,” and both “calendar” and “dates” have the letter ‘a’ in their second syllable. Or, think of a “calendar” as having “all days” listed, with “all” having an ‘a’.
Question 3: Why are “calendar” and “calender” often confused?
The confusion often arises from their similar pronunciation and spelling. Both words share the first three letters, “cal,” and their subsequent syllables sound somewhat similar, leading to common misspellings or misunderstandings.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct spelling for the system or chart that organizes days, weeks, and months is unequivocally calendar. While calender is a valid word, it refers to a completely different object—a machine used in industrial processes—and should not be used interchangeably with “calendar.” Understanding this distinction is key to clear and accurate communication.
Pro Tip: Always proofread your writing, especially when dealing with words that sound similar but have different spellings and meanings. Using the correct terminology enhances your credibility and ensures your message is received as intended.
