冬 (dōng) is the Chinese word for "winter," the coldest season of the year. It typically lasts from December to February in the Northern Hemisphere. During this time, temperatures drop, and many regions experience snowfall. Winter is associated with shorter days and longer nights, as the sun's path in the sky changes. In Chinese culture, winter is often linked to rest and reflection. It is a time when nature slows down, and many animals hibernate. Traditional festivals, such as 春节 (Spring Festival), are celebrated during this season, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring.