English Reference
Idiom idiom

gift that keeps on giving


Something with continuous (typically positive) consequences.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

This new coffee machine is the gift that keeps on giving.

CONTEXTUAL

Learning a second language is truly the gift that keeps on giving for your career and travel plans.

COMPLEX

The unexpected inheritance proved to be the gift that keeps on giving, providing the family with financial security for several generations.


disputed origin

The disease sense is by irony.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    cobbler, keep to your last

    One should not criticise matters outside one's field of expertise; one should mind one's business.

  2. 02

    earn one's keep

    To perform satisfactory physical labor or to provide other worthy services in return for remuneration, lodging, or other benefits; to support oneself financially.

  3. 03

    gift from above

    Synonym of gift from the gods.

  4. 04

    gift from heaven

    Synonym of gift from the gods.

  5. 05

    gift from the goddesses

    Synonym of gift from the gods.

  6. 06

    gift from the heavens

    Synonym of gift from the gods.

  7. 07

    gift horse

    An apparent gift, that has substantial associated costs or drawbacks, especially a gift that does not fit perfectly with the recipient's wants or needs.

  8. 08

    gift of the gab

    The ability to talk readily, glibly, and convincingly, especially on trivial matters and small talk.

Last updated August 10, 2026