gideon
n. countablen. a copy of the Bible that you often find in hotel rooms. These books are left there by a group of Christians who want to share their faith with travelers.
n. a copy of the Holy Bible placed in hotel rooms and other public lodging by Gideons International. When used in this sense, it is a common noun derived from the name of the organization.
I found a Gideon in the nightstand drawer.
Travelers who find themselves without reading material often turn to the Gideon provided in their hotel room.
The presence of a Gideon in the bedside table remains a staple of the American hospitality experience, reflecting a long-standing tradition of providing spiritual resources to those away from home.
Often used with the indefinite article ('a Gideon') to refer to the physical book itself.
Last updated May 6, 2026