In France, Christmas is called "Noel" (pronounced "nwa-EL"). The word "Noel" is derived from the Latin word "natum," meaning "birth," and it has been used to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ for centuries. In addition to "Noel," other common terms used in France for Christmas include "Noel" (the Feast of the Nativity) and "Noel" (the Christmas season).