In the modern day, Gregorian calendar and its predecessor, the Julian calendar, April is considered as the Fourth month of the year. It contains 30 days and is named after the Aphrodite-The Greek Goddess.
The History of April
In the previous version of the Roman calendar, April was usually the second month of the year, which also consisted of 30 days. But in around 450 BCE, January was designated as the first month of the year, then April became the fourth month of the year with only 29 days. However, when Julius Caesar reformed the calendar, then this month again became 30 days long.
April – Aphrodite’s Month
It is believed that this month is named after the Greek-Goddess, Aphrodite (Aphros). However, The name of April has been derived from the Latin word which is Aperit. It means “to open” as in the earlier time, it was considered that this is the month of the growing season and the flowers and the trees also begin to open in April.
- In Old English, it is known as April or Aprilis.
- In Greek, it is called Aphro which is the short form of Aphrodite.
- In Latin, it is named Aprilis or Aperit which means to open.
The Fourth Month of April
In the Northern Hemisphere, April is commonly associated with the spring season and in the Southern Hemisphere, it is associated with its fall (autumn). In common years, April begins on the same day of the week as July and ends up with the same day of the week as of December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.What are the birth flowers and birthstones of the month of April?
Ans. The birth flower of April is Sweet pea and Daisy and the birthstone is the Diamond which symbolizes innocence.
Q2.What is special about the month of April?
Ans. This month begins with the warm weather and later on it changes into beautiful spring weather. The birds also migrate to the north and settle to the south for the summers, the trees and flowers also begin to open. In the Northern Hemisphere, the animals came out from borrows in April, who hibernate in the winters.
Q3. List some special dates and events that took place in the month of April?
Ans. The list of some special dates and events which held in the month of April are as follows:
- 1st April – April Fool’s Day.
- 22nd April – Earth Day.
- 23rd April – National Picnic Day.
- 25th April – World Penguin Day.
