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

stockinged

ˈstä-kiŋd 

adjective

Phrases

in one's stocking feet

: with the feet in stockings but not shoes

Synonyms

• hose
• 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

Even their stockings, or leggings, have specific requirements. —Natasha Dye, People.com, 21 Nov. 2024

With new takes on festive color palettes, creative Christmas garlands, and interior design-friendly stockings, find 11 Christmas living room ideas for modern-day merrymakers. —Amelia Mularz, Architectural Digest, 21 Nov. 2024

The rip-resistant stockings are known for their durability, preventing pesky runs and tears. —Claire Sullivan, WWD, 21 Nov. 2024

The age-old tradition of hanging stockings on the fireplace for Christmas morning adds some delight to the holidays. —Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Nov. 2024

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

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