n. 1. Something that is bestowed voluntarily and without compensation: I received several gifts for my birthday. Your gift of $100 is greatly appreciated. 2. The act of giving: The painting came into their possession by gift. 3. A talent, endowment, aptitude, or inclination: She has a gift for playing the piano. tr.v. gift·ed, gift·ing, gifts 1. To present something as a gift to: gifted his niece with a watch. 2. To give as a gift: "King Charles II ... had gifted the land of Carolina to certain members of his court" (Marilyn Yalom). 3. To endow with: Nature has gifted her with a fine voice. |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.