by Fresh Tramp Tricks June 25, 2011
by Freedom Ryder January 9, 2009
Indian Giver
There are two popular etymologies for this term for a person who gives a gift only to later demand its return. The first is that it is based on an unfair stereotype of Native Americans, that they don't keep their word. In the other popular explanation, the term doesn't cast aspersions on Native Americans, instead it echoes the broken promises the whites made to the Indians. Neither is accurate, although the first is closer to the truth.
There are two popular etymologies for this term for a person who gives a gift only to later demand its return. The first is that it is based on an unfair stereotype of Native Americans, that they don't keep their word. In the other popular explanation, the term doesn't cast aspersions on Native Americans, instead it echoes the broken promises the whites made to the Indians. Neither is accurate, although the first is closer to the truth.
Instead the term comes from different commercial practices. To the Native Americans, who had no concept of money or currency, gifts were a form of trade goods, of exchange. One didn't give a gift without expecting one of equivalent value in return. If one could not offer an equivalent return gift, the original gift would be refused or returned. To the Europeans, who with their monetary-based trade practices, this seemed low and insulting, gifts were not for trade but were to be freely given.
The noun Indian gift dates to 1765. Indian giver follows about a century later in 1865. Originally, these reflected simply the expectation of a return gift. By the 1890s, the sense had shifted to mean one who demands a gift back.
The noun Indian gift dates to 1765. Indian giver follows about a century later in 1865. Originally, these reflected simply the expectation of a return gift. By the 1890s, the sense had shifted to mean one who demands a gift back.
by Divaznc1 June 22, 2004
Formerly Indian Giver. Aptly stated in a tweet by @haveabj in response to the Australian reversal of Novak Djokervic's Visa. Basically meaning to offer someone something, give it to them, and take it back. Also Australian Giver.
by pornstitute January 14, 2022
a person who searches out excellent causes to donate money to or volunteer for, such a person truly donates from the heart not only from the wallet, for the unlift of others.
Julie is a go-giver, considering all she passionately volunteers for and donates to.
by John Wordsleuth August 30, 2019
by Angelus69 January 5, 2006
Someone who lacks money to buy proper gifts during the holidays. Instead of buying gifts, they simply make a list of the things they thought of purchasing for others.
Santa arrived to give the children all their presents. When the list giver arrived he explained to each child, individually, of the toys he wanted to bring them.
by brokebutstilldrinking January 28, 2008