thanksgiving

noun

thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgi-viŋ 

also

ˈthaŋ(k)s-ˌgi- 

1

a

Thanksgiving : 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

These vintage Thanksgiving recipes are here to make your Thanksgiving meal just a touch more nostalgic. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 12 Nov. 2026

Denver-area restaurants and bakeries want to take the stress out of your Thanksgiving feast. — Sara Hansen, Denver Post, 11 Nov. 2026

Thanksgiving is fast approaching, so following last week’s guide, this week’s column is all about preorders from pop-ups (and a few brick-and-mortars) that are serving up plenty of options beyond the typical holiday fare. — Sam Flemming, AJC.com, 11 Nov. 2026

Thanksgiving is all about gathering with family and friends over good food — but how that plays out can look different for everyone. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 11 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1533, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for thanksgiving

• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• misgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• giving
• living
• sieving
• unforgiving

Kids Definition

thanksgiving

noun

thanks·​giv·​ing thaŋ(k)s-ˈgiv-iŋ 

1

: the act of giving thanks

2

: a prayer expressing gratitude

3

capitalized : thanksgiving day