gratuity

noun

gra·​tu·​i·​ty grə-ˈtü-ə-tē 

-ˈtyü-

plural gratuities

: something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service

especially : tip

added a gratuity for the server

Did you know?

Gratuity vs. Tip

Gratuity is a fancier and more formal word than tip. It occurs most often in written notices along the lines of "Gratuities accepted". Its formality makes it best suited for describing tips of the dignified, expensive variety. For the taxi driver who takes you to the superb Belgian restaurant, it's a tip; for the restaurant's maitre d', it's a gratuity.

Synonyms

• perquisite
• tip

Examples of gratuity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some luxury lines, like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, include onboard gratuities in the cost of the cruise fare. —Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 15 Oct. 2024

Just show your first responder or teacher ID; excludes tax, gratuity and cannot be combined with any other offer. —Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 30 Aug. 2024

For an additional $80 per person per day, the package includes Wi-Fi on up to four devices, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, gratuities, two specialty meals per sailing, unlimited premium desserts, room service, and fitness center access. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2024

How much are tickets for the 'At the Table' event at The Fat Lamb? Tickets are $125 per person plus tax and gratuity. —Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see gratuitous

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

gratuity

noun

gra·​tu·​i·​ty

grə-ˈt(y)ü-ət-ē

plural gratuities

: something given freely

especially : tip entry 10