gratuity

noun

gra·​tu·​i·​ty grə-ˈtü-ə-tē How to pronounce gratuity (audio)
-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.

Examples of gratuity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Some luxury lines, like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, include onboard gratuities in the cost of the cruise fare. Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 15 Oct. 2024 Just show your first responder or teacher ID; excludes tax, gratuity and cannot be combined with any other offer. Alexis Simmerman, Austin American-Statesman, 30 Aug. 2024 For an additional $80 per person per day, the package includes Wi-Fi on up to four devices, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, gratuities, two specialty meals per sailing, unlimited premium desserts, room service, and fitness center access. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2024 How much are tickets for the 'At the Table' event at The Fat Lamb? Tickets are $125 per person plus tax and gratuity. Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for gratuity 

Word History

Etymology

see gratuitous

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gratuity was in 1540

Dictionary Entries Near gratuity

Cite this Entry

“Gratuity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratuity. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

gratuity

noun
gra·​tu·​i·​ty
grə-ˈt(y)ü-ət-ē
plural gratuities
: something given freely
especially : tip entry 10

More from Merriam-Webster on gratuity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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