thanksgiving

noun

• 1the expression of gratitude, especially to God:he offered prayers in thanksgiving for his safe arrival [count noun]:he described the service as a thanksgiving

• 2 (Thanksgiving or Thanksgiving Day) (in North America) an annual national holiday marked by religious observances and a traditional meal. The holiday commemorates a harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrim Fathers in 1621, and is held in the US on the fourth Thursday in November. A similar holiday is held in Canada, usually on the second Monday in October: [as modifier]:Thanksgiving dinner