Well Dick, My sources all show 'Humbug' as 18c origin unknown. The definitions are interesting:- Deceptive or false talk or behaviour. An imposter. British hard boiled sweet usually flavoured with peppermint To deceive or hoax.

All of these - with the excption of the sweet, apply to the modern commercialised Christmas.

However, I do wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas, whatever it means to each of you.