thanksgiving

noun

thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgi-viŋ How to pronounce thanksgiving (audio)
also
ˈthaŋ(k)s-ˌgi- How to pronounce thanksgiving (audio)
1
a
capitalized : 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On Friday, November 29, the TODAY With Hoda and Jenna host posted a collection of photos on Instagram of her family celebrating her nephew's first thanksgiving. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Southern Living, 3 Dec. 2024 Nevertheless, William Bradford, the governor of Plymouth colony, declared a day of public thanksgiving in October of the following year. Gregory J. Rummo, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Nov. 2024 Some years, of course, are more susceptible to genuine feelings of thanksgiving than others. Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 27 Nov. 2024 The act of thanksgiving is a pillar of all religions. Diane Owens Prettyman, Austin American-Statesman, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for thanksgiving 

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of thanksgiving was in 1533

Dictionary Entries Near thanksgiving

Cite this Entry

“Thanksgiving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thanksgiving. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

thanksgiving

noun
thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgiv-iŋ How to pronounce thanksgiving (audio)
1
: the act of giving thanks
2
: a prayer expressing gratitude
3
capitalized : thanksgiving day

More from Merriam-Webster on thanksgiving

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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