Definition of gratuitous
1 : not called for by the circumstances : not necessary, appropriate, or justified : unwarranted a gratuitous insult a gratuitous assumption a movie criticized for gratuitous violence
2a : given unearned or without recompense We mistake the gratuitous blessings of Heaven for the fruits of our own industry.— Roger L'Estrange
b : costing nothing : free It was printed in France at the author's expense, for gratuitous distribution to educators and others. — Current Biography
c law : not involving a return benefit, compensation, or consideration
has gratuitous permission to pass over private land
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Time Traveler for gratuitous
The first known use of gratuitous was in 1617
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