Christmas stocking

noun

1. a stocking or stocking-shaped bag traditionally hung on a mantelpiece or Christmas tree by children on Christmas Eve to hold small gifts that Santa Claus is credited with bringing.

Christmas stocking

noun

1. a stocking hung up by children on Christmas Eve for Santa Claus to fill with presents

Word History and Origins

Origin of Christmas stocking¹

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

Even into the 1950s, kids living in snowbound American climes might find an orange — one solitary, precious orange — sagging in the toe of their Christmas stocking.

From Los Angeles Times

"Teenage boys bought their first suits for prom, twenty-something women picked up signature florals to wear at friend’s wedding and Christmas stockings were packed full of branded fragrances and lotions," she said.

From BBC

In the blizzard of guesswork about politics in the coming year, there's a fact as solid as a lump of coal at the bottom of your Christmas stocking.

From BBC

There’s also a mug shot Christmas stocking and with wrapping paper to match, as well as another version with the candidate pumping his fist in the air.

From Seattle Times

First they pulled out the crocheted likenesses of Charles, wearing a crown and a cape fashioned from an old Christmas stocking, and Camilla, with a flash of unruly blond hair.

From Seattle Times