why do we say xmas instead of christmas

The word "Xmas" is actually a shortened form of "Christmas." It originated in the Middle Ages, when the word "Christ" was commonly written with the Greek letter "chi" (χ), which looks like the letter "X" in our alphabet. So, instead of writing "Christ-mas" or "Christ-mass," people would write "Xmas" to save time and space. However, it is important to note that some people may consider the use of "Xmas" disrespectful or sacrilegious, as it takes away the "Christ" element of "Christmas."