Ancient Chinese envisioned the earth as a square surrounded by the sea on all four sides, with zhongguo signifying the central country within that landmass.
On drawing near to the furze-covered bank and ditch which fortified the captain's dwelling he could hear voices within, signifying that operations had been already begun.
The word holiday originally meant " holy day, " signifying an important day on the religious calendar. Today, however, the word has nothing to do with religion.