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

3

: a decorative pouch shaped like a large sock for holding small gifts at Christmas

hung their (Christmas) stockings on the mantle

stockinged

ˈstä-kiŋd 

adjective

see also in one's stocking feet

Synonyms of stocking

• 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

Stained Linens Cloth napkins, tablecloths, stockings, throw pillows, tree skirts, dish towels, placemats, bedding, and other linens should be in good shape. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 16 Dec. 2025

Don’t be caught with empty stockings on December 25. —Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 16 Dec. 2025

Plus, this Amazon pick makes a great stocking-stuffer for the holidays. —Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 16 Dec. 2025

Now, every student will also receive a stocking filled with necessities like toothbrushes, hats, and gloves — along with some fun surprises. —Lauren Crawford, CBS News, 15 Dec. 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

Rhymes for stocking

• blocking
• caulking
• chalking
• clocking
• cocking
• docking
• flocking
• gawking
• knocking
• locking
• mocking
• rocking

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