Will F.'s definitions
Big holiday on the day after Christmas in the United Kingdom and many of the Commonwealth countries. Boxes of gift items and money were distributed to one's servants or employees--probably the origin of Christmas bonuses.
On Boxing Day in the Middle Ages, the Lord of the Manor gave boxes of tools, money and other things his serfs needed to do their work in his lands. Today, boxes of clothing and food items are given to the needy.
by Will F. December 16, 2008
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