What does gib mean?
Gib is an informal English word for a gift or giveaway and, as a verb, for giving someone something as a gift. Its most familiar modern use is promotional: a free sample or handout may be called a “gib.” In older or regional usage, the word also meant a gift more generally, while the traditional Scottish idiom “gib and give” evokes reciprocal giving and receiving. The noun has a dated additional sense for a horse, especially a gelding, but this is not its normal modern meaning. Although “gib” can sound archaic or joking, it remains understandable in British and American English and is especially useful when discussing promotions, free handouts, or old-fashioned banter. Its roots connect it with the same Germanic word family as “give” and “gift,” giving it an apt history: something offered freely is both a gift and a giveaway. In informal speech or writing, “gib” also adds a slightly playful tone that a plainer word such as “gift” or “freebie” may lack.
To give something to someone as a gift, especially a small gift or promotional item.
"The organizers gipped each visitor a commemorative tote bag."
Informal; often playful or promotional in tone.
A gift, token, or promotional giveaway. In dated British usage, it can also mean a horse, especially a gelding.
"We received a small box of chocolates as a gib with the purchase."
The gift and giveaway senses are informal and remain in use in British and American English; the horse sense is dated.
The regular plural is used for gifts or promotional giveaways; the dated horse sense also takes the regular plural.
"The volunteers distributed free gibs to everyone who stopped at the booth."
A gib is a gift that gives—and in the old phrase “gib and give,” giving and receiving are partners.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gib come from?
The noun entered Middle English as a borrowing from Old French gibe, meaning a gift or present. It ultimately belongs to the same Germanic word family as English “give” and “gift,” while the verb continues the older sense of bestowing something as a gift.
Related word forms
How gib is actually used
The gift and verb senses are informal and can sound playful or deliberately old-fashioned. The horse sense is dated and chiefly British.
Easily confused with gib
A gibe is a mocking remark or taunt, whereas a gib is a gift or giveaway.
A jib is the triangular sail at the front of a sailing vessel, whereas a gib is a gift or giveaway.