gratuity
noun
gra·tu·i·ty
grə-ˈtü-ə-tē 
-ˈtyü-
plural gratuities
: something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service
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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.
Examples of gratuity in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Other fees like tax and gratuity will still apply.
—
Helena Wegner, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2025
According to Condé Nast Traveler, proper tipping etiquette in the US generally requires diners to leave gratuity separately—either added to the card payment or left in cash after receiving their change.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Oct. 2025
That’s because tipping isn’t in their culture, but Americans still might wish to add gratuity for excellent service.
—Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025
Unless expressly stated, transportation, ground transfers, meals, gratuities, incidentals, resort or facility fees, security deposits, and all other expenses are the sole responsibility of the winner.
—Vogue, 13 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
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Helena Wegner, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2025
According to Condé Nast Traveler, proper tipping etiquette in the US generally requires diners to leave gratuity separately—either added to the card payment or left in cash after receiving their change.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Oct. 2025
That’s because tipping isn’t in their culture, but Americans still might wish to add gratuity for excellent service.
—Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2025
Unless expressly stated, transportation, ground transfers, meals, gratuities, incidentals, resort or facility fees, security deposits, and all other expenses are the sole responsibility of the winner.
—Vogue, 13 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
Cite this Entry
“Gratuity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratuity. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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