verb
- past tense of hansel; to give a gift for good luck, especially at the beginning of a new year or venture
Usage: archaic; chiefly British
Examples
- The merchant hanselled his new apprentice with a silver coin.
- She hanselled the bride with a piece of jewelry for prosperity.
- The villagers hanselled the newborn child with small tokens.
- He hanselled his business partner to ensure good fortune.
- The family hanselled their guests with traditional gifts.
- They hanselled the new house with bread and salt.