# giving

/ˈɡɪvɪŋ/ (US) · /ɡˈɪvɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/giving
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. generous

adjective · CEFR B1

describes someone who is kind and enjoys helping or sharing with others.

For teachers: characterised by a generous or altruistic nature; inclined to provide support or resources to others.

- She has a very giving nature and always helps her neighbours with their groceries.
- His giving spirit was evident in the countless hours he spent mentoring underprivileged youth without seeking any public recognition.

### 2. vibe or style

adjective · CEFR C1 · Slang · Informal

used to say that something has a very specific or impressive look, mood, or feeling.

For teachers: used to indicate that a person, object, or situation strongly embodies a particular aesthetic or atmosphere.

- The decorations at the party were really giving 1920s glamour.
- The minimalist architecture of the new museum is giving industrial chic in a way that feels both modern and timeless.

Usage: Often used in the construction 'it's giving [noun/adjective]' to describe a specific impression.

Teaching tip: This is a very modern slang term popular on social media; it may sound out of place in professional or formal contexts.

### 3. the act of gifting

noun · CEFR B2

the act of providing or presenting something to someone else.

For teachers: the action of bestowing, imparting, or conferring something upon another person.

- The giving of gifts is a central part of many winter holidays.
- The formal giving of the keys to the city marked the beginning of the annual festival celebrations.

## Examples

- Her outfit is giving 90s supermodel.
- The new restaurant's decor is giving haunted mansion, but in a very stylish and intentional way.
- While some critics found the performance derivative, the younger audience praised it for giving main character energy through its bold lighting and dramatic pacing.

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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.