gravy

noun

gra·​vy ˈgrā-vē 

plural gravies

1

: a sauce made from the thickened and seasoned juices of cooked meat

2

a

: something additional or unexpected that is pleasing or valuable

… with expenses now paid, future money is pure gravy.

—K. Crossen

b

: unearned or illicit gain : graft entry 3

Synonyms of gravy

• sauce

Examples of gravy in a Sentence

The bonus he received in addition to his salary was pure gravy.

order a large serving of fries with extra gravy

Recent Examples on the Web

The Cheesy Nuggy Gravy Bowl puts a KFC spin on classic poutine that’s traditionally made with hot fries topped with fresh cheese curds and smothered in brown gravy. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2026

The poulet en croûte—a French riff on a classic chicken pot pie, filled with roasted chicken, leeks, morels, and truffles, layered over creamy mashed potatoes, and smothered in rich gravy—was another standout. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 5 Jan. 2026

Soon McCarthy was taking the promotional exams again and was back in the gravy, breaking the half-million-dollar mark twice. —Howie Carr, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026

The dunk was just a little extra gravy on top. —Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 4 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English gravey, from Anglo-French gravé broth, stew

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing gravy

• gravy train
• redeye gravy

Rhymes for gravy

• navy
• wavy

Kids Definition

gravy

noun

gra·​vy ˈgrā-vē 

plural gravies

1

: a sauce made from the thickened and seasoned juices of cooked meat

2

: something additional or unexpected that is pleasing or valuable