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

Workers want pay and benefits in line with what the union says is the new citywide standard, which is a minimum wage of $30 per hour for non-tipped workers by 2028, a 15-room daily quota for housekeeping workers, 18% banquet gratuity and more, the release says. — Laura Fay, CBS News, 21 June 2026

At a higher fare level, some cruise lines bundle in extras such as drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, gratuities or onboard credit. — David Nikel, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

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

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