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

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

The 12-day trip starts at $12,769 per person, which includes two nights of hotel accommodation in each city, excursions, meals, and all gratuities. —Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 3 Dec. 2025

This list is different for everyone, but, in general, a gratuity is appropriate for any person who provides a service regularly. —Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal, 2 Dec. 2025

Most prices listed do not include beverages, tax and gratuity. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 14 Nov. 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