a carnival celebration that precedes Lent in German-speaking countries and communities; Shrovetide.
Origin: 1910–15; < G, orig. Bavarian and Austrian dial.; MHG vaschanc, vastschang, perh. equiv. to vast- Lent (G Fasten;see fast2) + schanc distribution or pouring of drinks, referring to the dispensing of liquor prohibited during Lent
[fah-shing] 
