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

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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 of gratuity

• tip
• bonus
• gift

Examples of gratuity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This includes all hotels, a seat on the private jet, ground transportation, all meals and beverages, all sightseeing activities and local guides, all gratuities, and luggage handling. — Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 7 Aug. 2026

Finally, given that the Supreme Court’s determination that bribe and gratuity have different definitions under the law, that ruling should, in turn, dismiss the interfering with the IRS charge. — Alexandra Kukulka, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026

Several passengers said the cruise line should simply build gratuities into the advertised fare, rather than charging them separately. — Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026

Now, in order for a tip to be eligible for the deduction, it must be voluntarily given, meaning that automatic gratuities and service fees don't count. — Tax Notes Staff, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

see gratuitous

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for gratuity

• acuity
• annuity
• circuity
• congruity
• fatuity
• tenuity
• vacuity
• ambiguity
• contiguity
• continuity
• incongruity
• ingenuity

Kids Definition

gratuity

noun

gra·​tu·​i·​ty

grə-ˈt(y)ü-ət-ē

plural gratuities

: something given freely

especially : tip entry 10