# Gideon

/ˈɡɪdiən/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gideon
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the indefinite article ('a Gideon') to refer to the physical book itself.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.