Definition

Noun: A long sock, traditionally hung by a fireplace or at the end of a bed on Christmas Eve, which is filled with small gifts, candies, fruits, and toys by Santa Claus or family members, to be opened on Christmas morning.

Usage

The term "Christmas stocking" refers specifically to the decorated stocking used in the Christmas tradition. It is a singular, countable noun.

Examples

• The children hung their Christmas stockings by the fireplace with care.
• She woke up early to see what was in her Christmas stocking.
• Filling the Christmas stockings is one of my favorite parts of Christmas Eve.

Advanced Usage

• "To hang/put up a Christmas stocking": To place the stocking in its traditional spot in anticipation of Santa's visit.
  • The first thing we do on Christmas Eve is hang our Christmas stockings.
• "A stocking stuffer": A term for a small gift specifically intended to be placed inside a Christmas stocking.
  • I bought some chocolates and keychains as stocking stuffers.

Variants and Related Words

• Stocking (n): A close-fitting, usually knitted covering for the foot and leg, which is the base object for the Christmas tradition.
• Christmas stocking holder (n): A decorative hook or clip designed to hold a stocking in place on a mantelpiece.

Synonyms

• Stocking: (Note: This is the base object, but without the "Christmas" modifier, it does not imply the festive tradition.)
• Holiday stocking: A more generic term sometimes used.

Idioms and Phrases

• "To be as long as a Christmas stocking": A humorous simile to describe something very long.
  • His story was as long as a Christmas stocking.

Noun

1. a stocking that is filled with small Christmas presents