trick or treat

¹

noun

1. a children's Halloween custom, in which they call on neighbors, using this phrase, and threaten to play a trick if a treat is not given.

trick-or-treat

²

[ trik-er-treet ]

verb (used without object)

1. to become involved or take part in trick or treat.

trick or treat

sentence substitute

1. the cry by children at Halloween when they call at houses, indicating that they want a present or money or else they will play a trick on the householder

Other Words From

• trick-or-treater noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of trick or treat¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Origin of trick or treat²

First recorded in 1940–45

Idioms and Phrases

A greeting by children asking for treats on Halloween and threatening to play a trick on those who refuse to give them. For example, The children went from house to house, shouting “Trick or treat!” [c. 1940]

Example Sentences

She recalls giving out 70 trick or treat bags to children out guising within half an hour one year.

From BBC

There is more than a trick or treat bag of candy to be consumed.

From Los Angeles Times

Perhaps you have a long walk around your neighborhood, so you get exercise while you trick or treat.

From Salon

Costumes, trick or treat, carved pumpkins and all that are festive.

From Washington Times

“I’ve been using my helmet as a trick or treat basket and wearing my jersey. This year I’m kind of feeling in my horror mood. I’m going to be Freddy Krueger.”

From Los Angeles Times