Definition of "thanking"

And therfore this is notary and trewe that al maner of folke ought to rendre and gyue thankynges grace and mercye to theyre good doers

1484, William Caxton, The Subtyl Historyes and Fables of Esope, Book 3, “The Lyon & the pastour or herdman,”

Many and hearty thankings to you both.

c. 1603–1604 (date written), William Shakespeare, “Measure for Measure”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, [Act V, scene i]

Bridesmaids and their dresses, thankings for wedding presents, best man, going-away clothes […] I’ve been engaged in such things for weeks.

1928, Hugh Walpole, chapter 7, in Wintersmoon‎