stocking

American  

[stok-ing] / ˈstɒk ɪŋ /

noun

1. a close-fitting covering for the foot and part of the leg, usually knitted, of wool, cotton, nylon, silk, or similar material.

2. something resembling such a covering.

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idioms

1. in one's stocking feet, wearing stockings, but without shoes.

   Be careful of glass splinters if you walk through here in your stocking feet.

stocking British  

/ ˈstɒkɪŋ /

noun

1. one of a pair of close-fitting garments made of knitted yarn to cover the foot and part or all of the leg

2. something resembling this in position, function, appearance, etc

3. wearing stockings or socks but no shoes

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Other Word Forms

• half-stocking noun
• overstocking noun
• stockinged adjective
• stockingless adjective
• unstockinged adjective

Etymology

Origin of stocking

First recorded in 1575–85; stock + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

On another Easter-related thread, a different commenter said: “We also throw in any leftover birthday favors and stocking stuffers.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

Some officers are taking on second jobs or relying on donations, union officials say, while several major airports are collecting gift cards and stocking food pantries for TSA staff struggling without pay.

From Barron's • Mar. 21, 2026

Kate and Andy still mark Ann's birthday every year with a cake and a rendition of "happy birthday", and they put up her stocking for Christmas.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

At the Apollo Depot Military Outlet in downtown Oceanside on Friday, Sam Esparza, 32, was stocking a display case with pins and checking inventory.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 9, 2026

The diver in his stocking cap was sitting in the grey motor-boat belonging to the harbour-master.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier

Related Words

• hose
• hosiery
• sock