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

Each Roam by Tauck trip includes accommodations, airport transfers upon arrival and departure, luggage handling, gratuities, and activities offered on the itinerary. —Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 21 Apr. 2026

Cruisers enjoy complimentary alcohol and caviar, fine dining, gratuities, and some shore excursions, among fare inclusions. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Apr. 2026

This is when that counter service spot flips the screen over to me and my options are 20, 25 or 30 percent gratuity for handing me a muffin. —Allyson Reedy, Denver Post, 15 Apr. 2026

The cruise line will raise its Hotel Service Charge gratuity rates for Caribbean and Alaska sailings beginning May 11. —Nathan Diller, USA Today, 14 Apr. 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