Geschenk

Geschenk is a German noun meaning a present or gift. It denotes an item or experience given by one person to another without expecting payment. The term is used across German-speaking countries in personal, familial, and ceremonial contexts.

Etymology and usage in language: The word arises from the verb schenken, meaning to give or present. The noun das Geschenk is the result of combining the concept of giving with a nominal ending. It is the common way to refer to a gift in everyday speech, commerce, and writing.

Cultural and social context: Gifts are exchanged on occasions such as birthdays, Christmas (Weihnachten), weddings, graduations, or anniversaries. In everyday life, gifts range from tangible objects to vouchers or experiences. Alternatives include Gutschein (gift card) and Geldgeschenk (cash gift). Gift-wrapping and a brief note are common social practices in many regions.

Legal sense: In German law, a gift (Schenkung) is a unilateral transfer of property from a donor to a recipient without consideration. A Schenkung may have formal requirements for certain assets and can have tax implications depending on jurisdiction and relationship between donor and recipient.

Etiquette and reception: Social norms vary, but gifts are usually chosen with some consideration for the recipient and occasion. Modesty and appropriateness are valued in many professional and formal contexts, while personal gifts often reflect shared interests or memories.

See also: Schenkung, Gutschein, Geldgeschenk.