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

Restaurants pay tipped workers a base wage that, when combined with gratuities, must meet or exceed the full minimum wage. —Andrew Rigie, New York Daily News, 2 Jan. 2026

Prices listed, unless noted, do not include tax, gratuity, alcohol or other beverages. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 27 Dec. 2025

Handle Gratuity Smoothly Jackson says gratuity should be based on the original price of the service, even when using a promotion, coupon, or gift card. —Gabi De La Rosa, Southern Living, 27 Dec. 2025

In lieu of a tip or gratuity, a 22% service charge will be applied to all purchases. —Laura Ness, Mercury News, 22 Dec. 2025

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