/giv"euh way'/ , n.
1. an act or instance of giving something away.
2. something that is given away, esp. as a gift or premium: A pocket calculator was offered as a giveaway with every new subscription to the magazine.
3. a radio or television program on which prizes are given away to contestants in a question-and-answer game.
4. a tax law or other legislation designed to benefit one segment of the population, one area or state, etc.: a giveaway that benefited only the very rich.
5. an unscrupulous deal, esp. one that benefits some while defrauding others.
6. Sports. any careless loss of possession of a ball, puck, etc., or other offensive lapse that leads to a score by the opponent.
adj.
7. constituting a giveaway: a giveaway newspaper.
[ 1870-75, Amer.; n. use of v. phrase give away ]