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

• perquisite
• tip

Examples of gratuity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An 18% before-tax gratuity (listed on the menu and automatically applied, but removable upon customer request) adds another $5.04, bringing the Q-Dog to $35.21. —Benjy Egel, Sacramento Bee, 6 June 2024

For an extra $60 per day, consider Princess Plus, which offers perks like Wi-Fi for one device per guest, gratuities, fitness classes (two per sailing), and beverages like bottled water, specialty coffee, soft drinks, and juice. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 27 May 2024

Alcoholic beverages, gift cards, gratuities, and taxes don't count towards the minimum spend on either of these graduation deals. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 25 May 2024

If a restaurant charges a mandatory gratuity fee for a certain number of people who dine-in, the attorney general’s office said that fee must be folded into menu prices. —Angela Rodriguez, Sacramento Bee, 15 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

see gratuitous

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

gratuity

noun

gra·​tu·​i·​ty

grə-ˈt(y)ü-ət-ē

plural gratuities

: something given freely

especially : tip entry 10