thanksgiving

noun

thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgi-viŋ 

also

ˈthaŋ(k)s-ˌgi- 

1

a

Thanksgiving : thanksgiving day

b

: a public acknowledgment or celebration of divine goodness

2

: the act of giving thanks

3

: a prayer expressing gratitude

Examples of thanksgiving in a Sentence

They sang a hymn of thanksgiving.

Recent Examples on the Web

There are stuffing recipes here for traditionalists and Thanksgiving rule breakers alike. — Hannah Lee Leidy, Bon Appetit Magazine, 6 Oct. 2026

During the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress also called for days of thanksgiving. — Michele Metych Britannica Editors Sep. 30, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Sep. 2026

Best for Thanksgiving Live stalks of millet, flax, and club wheat are accented with real pheasant leaves in this Thanksgiving-appropriate arrangement. — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 28 Sep. 2026

Thanksgiving The most expensive and popular day when departing for the holiday is Wednesday. — Ayesha Ali, ABC News, 26 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for thanksgiving

• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• misgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• giving
• living
• sieving
• unforgiving

Kids Definition

thanksgiving

noun

thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgiv-iŋ 

1

: the act of giving thanks

2

: a prayer expressing gratitude

3

capitalized : thanksgiving day