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

Fans were likely vocal over the stocking that appeared to be a dig at Clarkson's ex due to their messy divorce. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 20 Dec. 2024

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the Solar cycle, Not a sunspot was stirring, not even a burst; The stockings were all hung by the corona with care, In hopes that the Parker Solar Probe would soon be there. —Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 19 Dec. 2024

Across the way, a series of stockings hung near the cash register: Annie, Lillian, George, Hadley, Frederick, Ana, Jamil. —Greg Borowski, Journal Sentinel, 18 Dec. 2024

For a touch of whimsy, layer smaller bows among the large bow in various finishes, patterns, or tail lengths, or incorporate charming accessories like the first initial of the stocking's owner or a tiny pom-pom garland. —Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Dec. 2024

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