gratuity
noun
gra·tu·i·ty
grə-ˈtü-ə-tē 
-ˈtyü-
plural gratuities
: something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service
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.
Examples of gratuity in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Initially, Domingo had planned to implement automatic gratuity at his restaurants during the World Cup.
—
Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
Keep in mind that prices may not include gratuities and taxes.
—Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 16 June 2026
Frustration is said to be mounting as several cruise lines have raised their gratuity or service charges in 2026.
—Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2026
That’s because they were charged a 13% plus gratuity.
—Torie Bosch, STAT, 13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
Keep in mind that prices may not include gratuities and taxes.
—Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 16 June 2026
Frustration is said to be mounting as several cruise lines have raised their gratuity or service charges in 2026.
—Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2026
That’s because they were charged a 13% plus gratuity.
—Torie Bosch, STAT, 13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
Cite this Entry
“Gratuity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratuity. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
