National Give Something Away Day

A smiling person gifting a beautifully wrapped present, wearing a vibrant summer outfit, in a park surrounded by blooming flowers.. — National give something away day illustration

Hold onto your hats, folks, because National Give Something Away Day is sweeping the globe faster than a freebie on Black Friday. Coming in hot every 15th of July, this beautiful day cuts to the core of what it means to be a human – by gifting someone with something. Provided it's not your cold, of course. It's 24 hours packed full of generosity that's left a profound digital footprint, with a whizzing 5259 online mentions in 2020 alone. It's kind of a big deal.

When is Give Something Away Day?

It's national give something away day on the 15th July.

A Gift that Keeps Giving

Ever wondered why it feels so good to give? Well, science says it’s because acts of benevolence release endorphins, those brain chemicals known for their feel-good effect. And in the world of social media, where National Give Something Away Day exploded with gusto on July 15th, 2020, it's clear this positive buzz is as infectious as watching kittens and puppies become best friends.

Hoarding No More!

Got some random thingamabobs cluttering up your space? Perhaps an oodle of socks with no pairs in sight? Turns out, National Give Something Away Day is the perfect occasion to declutter your life and make someone else's day. Never underestimate the allure of a seemingly inconspicuous thingamabob to someone else. One man’s trash... am I right?

Sharing is Caring

But it's not just about clearing space. It's a reminder to share what we have with others - be it time, money, food or even a smile. It's a day for love and compassion to shine brighter than a summer sun. Because as Aesop must have had in his mind whilst scribbling down his fable - it's the ‘giving’ part in life that can often make us the happiest.

Passionate Participation

And people certainly do love to give on this day. Judging by the whopping 5259 mentions of National Give Something Away Day online in 2020, it's safe to say the internet practically brims with the spirit of generosity around July 15th. It's truly heartening to see the outpouring of kindness, generosity, and sheer goodwill that dominates the interwebs.

History behind the term 'Give Something Away'

Old English Period (450-1150)

The Origins of Give

The term 'give' can be traced back to the Old English word 'giefan,' which meant 'to bestow or deliver.' This early usage of 'give' predominantly referred to the physical act of presenting something to someone.

Middle English Period (1150-1500)

Expanding the Meaning

During the Middle English Period, the meaning of 'give' expanded beyond just the physical act of giving. It came to encompass notions of offering, granting, or providing intangible things such as advice, love, and respect. The term started to embody the notion of generosity and selflessness.

The Rise of Idiomatic Use (1700s-1800s)

Give Something Away

In the late 18th century, the idiom 'to give something away' began gaining popularity. It referred to the act of voluntarily parting with or revealing something of value, usually without expecting anything in return. This expression gained significance in situations where people would willingly share their possessions, knowledge, or secrets, often for altruistic purposes.

Modern Usage

Beyond Material Possessions

In modern usage, the term 'give something away' can extend beyond material possessions. It now encompasses acts of providing emotional support, divulging information, helping others, or even making a sacrifice. The phrase has become a versatile expression, symbolizing both generosity and vulnerability.

Did you know?

Did you know that globally, more than 30% of our clothes haven’t been worn in over a year? National Give Something Away Day could be the perfect excuse to rehome those adorable shoes that are just a teeny bit too tight.