Christmas stocking

American  

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.

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Christmas stocking British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of Christmas stocking

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 • Sep. 22, 2024

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 • Apr. 30, 2023

When Renee Sekel’s nonbinary teenager first requested a different name on their Christmas stocking, she responded with “absolutely not” in what she now considers “the wrong reaction.”

From Washington Times • Mar. 22, 2023

Also included in the "Artifacts of Hollywood & Music" sale on Jan. 28 are items from Marilyn Monroe and Liza Minnelli - plus Rock Hudson's dog's Christmas stocking.

From Reuters • Jan. 26, 2023

My mother is excited, and I catch some of this excitment from her: it’s like a Christmas stocking.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood