Valentine refers primarily to two related concepts:
- Saint Valentine: A 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14, known for ministering to persecuted Christians and associated with the tradition of romantic love. There were possibly two saints named Valentine, including a Roman priest and a bishop of Terni. Saint Valentine is remembered for acts such as secretly marrying couples against an emperor's ban and is linked to the origin of Valentine's Day.
- Valentine's Day: An annual celebration on February 14 that honors Saint Valentine and has evolved into a day of expressing romantic love, friendship, and admiration. It is commonly celebrated by sending cards, gifts, flowers, and messages of affection to loved ones. The day is marked by customs such as exchanging valentines (greeting cards) and romantic gestures, symbolized by hearts, Cupid, and flowers.
In everyday use, "valentine" can mean a sweetheart or the person to whom one sends affection on Valentine's Day. It can also refer to a gift or greeting card exchanged on that day. In summary, Valentine is both the name of a Christian saint and the term linked to a celebration of love on February 14, widely observed around the world. The day has historical, cultural, religious, and commercial significance as a symbol of love and affection.
