This term is sometimes perceived as insulting to or by American Indians. However, it originally referred to their custom of giving a gift and expecting an equivalent gift in return. See also Indian.
British Dictionary definitions for Indian giver
Indian giver
noun
1.
(US & Canadian, offensive) a person who asks for the return of a present he has given
Derived Forms
Indian giving, noun
Idioms and Phrases with Indian giver
Indian giver
One who takes or demands back one's gift to another, as in Jimmy wanted to take back Dan's birthday present, but Mom said that would make him an Indian giver. This term, now considered offensive, originally alluded to the Native American practice of expecting a gift in return for one that is given. [ ; early 1800s ]