stocking

noun

stock·​ing ˈstä-kiŋ 

1

a

: a usually knit close-fitting covering for the foot and leg

b

: sock

2

: something resembling a stocking

especially : a ring of distinctive color on the lower part of the leg of an animal

stockinged

ˈstä-kiŋd 

adjective

Phrases

in one's stocking feet

: with the feet in stockings but not shoes

Synonyms

• hose
• sock

Examples of stocking in a Sentence

a pair of wool stockings

thick wool stockings designed to be worn with hiking boots

Recent Examples on the Web

Hidden costs lurk like shadows in the retail world—slotting fees, chargebacks and stocking requirements. —Joel Goldstein, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025

Wearing compression stockings, exercising regularly, protecting your skin from the sun, and taking frequent movement breaks throughout the day can all help reduce your risk. —Laura Schober, Health, 12 Jan. 2025

Bud is a schnauzer mix with deep, expressive eyes; beige snoot and leg stockings; and a white chest, with the rest of his fur a charcoal black. —Tj MacIas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Jan. 2025

Another photo showed Legend posing with Luna, Wren and Miles in front of their stockings, while a further shot showed their two sons sitting in front of their dad who was beaming for the camera. —Becca Longmire, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

obsolete stock to cover with a stocking

First Known Use

1580, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing stocking

• body stocking
• Christmas stocking
• silk stocking
• stocking cap
• stocking filler
• stocking stuffer

Kids Definition

stocking

noun

stock·​ing ˈstäk-iŋ 

1

: a close-fitting usually knit covering for the foot and leg

2

: sock entry 1

Medical Definition

stocking

noun

stock·​ing ˈstäk-iŋ 

: a usually knit close-fitting covering for the foot and leg see elastic stocking