Gifts
ˈɡɪfts
Definitions
2 meaningsSomething voluntarily transferred by one person or organization to another without compensation.
ˈɡɪfts
Something given voluntarily to someone without compensation.
He received a valuable gift from his grandfather.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're celebrating someone's birthday. A 'gift' is like the awesome toy or the yummy cake your friend gets, or maybe something that shows how much you care, like when someone gives you their time when you're having a bad day!
👶 For kids: A gift is something nice you get from someone, like a toy or a hug!
More Examples
The organization distributed gifts to the needy families.
She wrapped the gifts carefully.
How It's Used
"She received many gifts for her birthday."
"The company provides gifts to employees during the holidays."
A natural ability or talent; a special aptitude.
ˈɡɪfts
A special ability, talent, or aptitude.
Her gift for music was evident from an early age.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're really, really good at drawing or playing a sport. The word 'gift' can also mean that special thing you're naturally good at. Like, 'She has the gift of gab' means she's great at talking!
👶 For kids: A gift can also be something you are good at, like singing or drawing.
More Examples
He possessed the gift of leadership.
The company noticed her special gifts and promoted her.
How It's Used
"She had a natural gift for writing."
"The gifts of the Holy Spirit."
Idioms & expressions
the gift of the gab
A talent for speaking persuasively or fluently.
"As a salesperson, she certainly has the gift of the gab."
look a gift horse in the mouth
To be critical or suspicious of a gift or offer, especially one that is given freely; to question the value or motives of a gift.
"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth; just accept the offer gratefully."
From Middle English *gift*, from Old English *gift* (a giving, present, offering), from Proto-Germanic *gebiz* (a giving). Related to *give*.
The word 'gift' has been used for centuries to denote something given or bestowed, reflecting the significance of generosity and reciprocity.
Memory tip
Think of a wrapped present, a token of appreciation.
Word Origin
"a giving, present, offering"