gift
UK[ɡɪft]US[ɡɪft]
n
something that you give to someone, especially on a special occasion or to show thanks
n
a natural ability or talent
Etymology
the english word 'gift' was borrowed from old norse 'gipt', which meant a gift, good luck, or fate. this old norse term is related to the old english word 'giefu', meaning gift, which shares a common proto-germanic ancestor gebō, derived from the verb gebaną meaning 'to give'. the semantic journey from a concrete act of giving to an abstract innate talent reflects a metaphorical extension, where a natural ability is perceived as something bestowed by fate or nature. this dual meaning of a physical present and an inherent capability has been preserved in modern english usage.
Analysis
the word 'gift' is a simplex word of old norse origin. it functions as a complete lexical unit.
Examples
she received a beautiful gift for her birthday.
he has a natural gift for music.
the foundation made a generous gift to the university.