Gift

Definition

Gift is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to something voluntarily given without payment, often as a token of appreciation or celebration. It can also mean a natural talent or ability. As a verb, it means to give something as a present or bestow.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪft/
• Respelling: GIFT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪft/
• Respelling: GIFT

Etymology

The word "gift" originates from Old Norse "gift," meaning "something given," derived from Proto-Germanic "*giftiz," and Proto-Indo-European "*gʰbʰi-ti-," meaning "to give." It entered Old English as "gift," retaining its meaning as a voluntary offering.

Derivatives

• Gifted (adjective)
• Gifting (verb)
• Giftwrap (noun/verb)
• Regift (verb)
• Gift-giver (noun)

Synonyms

• Present
• Offering
• Endowment

Antonyms

• Take
• Seizure
• None

Usage

The noun "gift" is commonly used in contexts such as "She received a beautiful gift for her birthday." As a verb, it is used like "He gifted her a bouquet of flowers."

Related Terms

• Donation: Something given to help others, typically to a charity.
• Talent: A natural aptitude or skill, sometimes referred to as a "gift."
• Present: An item given to someone without expectation of payment.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Something voluntarily given without payment: Refers to a present or token of appreciation.
  • Example: "The gift was wrapped beautifully."
• A natural talent or ability: Describes an innate skill or capacity.
  • Example: "She has a gift for painting."

Verb

• To give something as a present: Describes the act of offering something as a gift.
  • Example: "He gifted a watch to his friend."
• To bestow or endow: Refers to granting something to someone, often formally.
  • Example: "The company gifted the community a new playground."