gratuity
noun
gra·tu·i·ty
grə-ˈtü-ə-tē 
-ˈtyü-
plural gratuities
: something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service
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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.
Examples of gratuity in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Masi acknowledges that a ban on service charges and gratuities might hurt the wallets of restaurant workers, but adds that a livable wage is the restaurant’s responsibility — not the diner’s.
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Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2025
With the exception of spa treatments, pretty much everything on property is included, even gratuities.
—Eve Chen, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025
While many establishments encourage a 15-20 percent tip for good service, diners usually adjust their gratuity based on their experience, which can lead to tension between staff and customers.
—Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
Airfares are up, hotel rates are mostly flat and cruise lines are more likely to waive your gratuities than slash your fare.
—New York Times, 22 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
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Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2025
With the exception of spa treatments, pretty much everything on property is included, even gratuities.
—Eve Chen, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025
While many establishments encourage a 15-20 percent tip for good service, diners usually adjust their gratuity based on their experience, which can lead to tension between staff and customers.
—Raul A. Reyes, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025
Airfares are up, hotel rates are mostly flat and cruise lines are more likely to waive your gratuities than slash your fare.
—New York Times, 22 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
Cite this Entry
“Gratuity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratuity. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
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