Why do people use the word "gift" as a verb?

Gift = Poison.

theoretically derived from the verb "to gift".

sound like illiterate morons. The same goes for people who insist on using "myself" when "I" is called for, and for those who say "utilize" when "use" fits the bill.

That's how they sound to me.

When did this "gifted" phrase become trendy?

Everyone at this meeting or that is an illiterate moron, everyone on Capitol Hill is an illiterate moron, etc. He used to use "illiterate imbecile," but now it's always "illiterate moron."

Since there are morons that know how to read / write / speak, it never struck me as redundant.

My brother (rest his soul) was a truly brilliant man.

Except when he would say:
"IT'S THE 'EXACT SAME' THING!"

I still prefer "illiterate moron" or "exact same" over "gifted" though.

Using "gifted" makes one sound like English is their second language.

when people try to sound more educated than they actually are. Examples include but are by no means limited to these three constant thorns in my side:

a.) When people use the word "utilize" when "use" is proper. If you've ever used the D.C. Metro, you'll hear the driver announce "please utilize all doors."

b.) When people use the word "myself" when "I" is correct: "At the meeting were Mason, Karenca and myself."

c.) When people go out of their way to use the phrase "mutually exclusive." I know it has practical applications, but I know idiots who find a way to work it into conversation a half a dozen times within the same dinner.

BTW, I hate "exact same" as much as you do. :)

I don't gift a damn either way.

I am trying to get over my indignation, personally, though it still bugs the crap out of me to see and hear it happen.

I was wondering when yet another voun became a verb.:shrug:

http://www.answers.com/gift&r=67

And is also defined as a verb:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/gift

WordNet - Cite This Source gift

noun
1. something acquired without compensation
2. natural abilities or qualities
3. the act of giving

verb
1. give qualities or abilities to
2. give as a present; make a gift of; "What will you give her for her birthday?"

WordNet® 2.1, © 2005 Princeton University

At least that's what my neice tells me.