Definition
to give a present that you do not want to someone else, usually wrapped up again neatly
Origin and usage
The word regift is a recent word, first appearing in English in 1995. It comes from the Middle English prefix ‘re-‘ meaning ‘again’ and the Middle English root word ‘gift’ meaning ‘present’.
Examples
Regift is a verb that refers to the practice of giving a gift one has received to someone else. A regifted present is typically something that the original recipient does not like, does not want or cannot use.
Regifting may sometimes be considered offensive to the original gift-giver and many people think the practice is in poor taste. However, regifting can actually be a good thing, as it reduces waste and can make last-minute gift-giving easier. There are ways to regift, rules to follow, so that no one’s feelings are hurt.
First, always mark gifts you’ve received that you plan to pass along to someone else. Write down the original gift-giver’s name and the date you got the present before putting the gift away. This prevents you giving the present back to the person who gave it to you.
Second, be careful about regifting to someone who will know where the original present came from. Don’t bring a regifted item to a gathering where the original gift-giver is likely to attend, and don’t give a regifted present to someone who might be expected to show it off to the person who gave it to you first.
Finally, to avoid the uncomfortable circumstances of regifting in the first place, you might try telling people what you’d like to receive rather than leaving them to guess. It may seem rude, but people will appreciate giving you a present you’re sure to love.
View the full definition in the Macmillan Dictionary.
