sentimental gift

[/ˌsentɪˈmentəl ɡɪft/]
nounpl: sentimental gifts
presente sentimental
1. A gift given primarily for its emotional or symbolic value rather than its material worth or practical use
She kept the sentimental gift from her grandmother in a special box for decades.
Ela guardou o presente sentimental de sua avó em uma caixa especial por décadas.
2. A present chosen to commemorate a meaningful moment, relationship, or memory
He gave her a sentimental gift on their anniversary—a photo album of their memories together.
Ele lhe deu um presente sentimental no aniversário deles—um álbum de fotos de suas memórias juntos.
In both Brazilian and American cultures, sentimental gifts hold special significance in relationships and family traditions. They are particularly common during milestone events (anniversaries, graduations, births) and are often preserved as heirlooms. In Brazil, sentimental gifts frequently symbolize deep family bonds (laços familiares), while in the USA they're often associated with Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and commemorative occasions.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
meaningful giftkeepsakemementotoken of affectionheartfelt giftemotional gift
Antonyms / Antônimos
practical giftutilitarian giftimpersonal gift

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
presente sentimental
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
presente do coração
More emotional, colloquial variant meaning 'gift from the heart'
São Paulo
presente significativo
More formal alternative meaning 'significant gift'
Portugal
prenda sentimental
Portuguese uses 'prenda' instead of 'presente'; similar emotional connotation

Related Words

nostalgiamementokeepsakememoryemotional valueheartfelt

Related Idioms & Phrases

a gift from the heart
something to remember you by
a token of my affection
priceless in sentimental value
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