Emily Dickinson Lexicon

Santa Claus, proper n. [Dutch Sante Klaas, Saint Nicholas.]

Father Christmas; giver of presents; patron saint of children and unmarried women; jolly man who fills children's stockings with gifts on Christmas Eve; holiday personage having a white beard and wearing a red suit; imaginary being who is said to bring presents to people at Christmas time (see ED's letters); [fig.] altruist; benefactor; philanthropist; provider; charitable person; benevolent Being.