Word: Stocking Filler
Definition: A "stocking filler" is a small gift that is placed inside a Christmas stocking. It is usually a fun or inexpensive item that is given during the Christmas season.
Usage Instructions: You can use the term "stocking filler" when talking about gifts, especially around Christmas time. It is often used to describe something that is not a major present but still brings joy.
Examples: 1. “I bought some candy and toys as stocking fillers for the kids.” 2. “A good stocking filler can be a little book or a puzzle.”
Advanced Usage: In a more advanced context, "stocking fillers" can refer to any small gifts that people might give during holidays or celebrations, not just Christmas. You might hear it in conversations about gift-giving strategies or holiday shopping.
Word Variants: - "Stocking" (noun): A long sock or similar item that is hung up for Christmas to be filled with gifts. - "Filler" (noun): Something used to fill a space or gap.
Different Meaning: Outside of the Christmas context, "filler" can also refer to something that is used to fill a void or space, like a filler in a conversation (to keep it going) or in various crafts and industries (to fill materials).
Synonyms: - Small gift - Trivial gift - Token gift
Idiom/Phrasal Verb: While "stocking filler" itself is not an idiom or phrasal verb, related phrases could include: - “Fill (someone’s) stocking” – to give someone gifts during the holiday season. - "Fill in" – to provide additional information or to occupy a space.