stocking filler
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A small, inexpensive gift traditionally placed inside a Christmas stocking. It is a secondary or supplementary present, often intended to provide an extra element of surprise or fun.
Usage
A "stocking filler" is a specific cultural concept related to Christmas traditions. It refers to a small item that fills out the contents of a stocking hung for Santa Claus to fill. These are distinct from the main, larger presents. - It is typically used in British English. The American English equivalent is often "stocking stuffer." - The term is almost exclusively used in the context of Christmas gift-giving.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The concept emphasizes the tradition and festivity of Christmas rather than the monetary value of the gift.
- It can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe any small, additional bonus item, though this usage is rare and informal.
- Think of the free dessert as a little stocking filler to your meal.
Variants and Related Words
- Stocking stuffer (noun): The common American English synonym for "stocking filler."
- Christmas stocking (noun): The long sock or decorative bag in which stocking fillers are placed.
Synonyms
- Small gift
- Trinket
- Novelty item
- Little extra
Related Idioms/Phrases
- To fill a stocking: The act of putting gifts, including stocking fillers, into a Christmas stocking.
- I stayed up late to fill the stockings for the children.
Noun
- a small Christmas present included in the Christmas stocking