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DictionarygratuityExtra payment
noun

gratuity

gruh-TOO-uh-tee/ɡrəˈtuːəti/

A payment given beyond what is required, especially to thank someone for service.

The diner leaves a gratuity beside the bill.

A customer leaves a few extra coins beside a restaurant bill after good service, voluntary gratuity.
Etymology
gratuityLatinfree gift

Gratuitas meant a “free gift,” which connects a gratuity with voluntary giving rather than a required charge. The English word came to name money given for a favor or service.

In context

Shep Hyken: Customer Service & CX Expert0:35
Here in the United States, we're expected to tip people for good service. Standard gratuity for a server at a restaurant is 15 to 20%.
Customer Service Speaker Discusses Hotel Tipping Policies

More examples

  • She left a generous gratuity after the meal.
  • The guide politely declined the offered gratuity.
  • The policy explained when gratuities could be accepted.

Forms

gratuity · gratuities

Similar words

tip
Tip is the everyday term for the same extra payment for service.
fee
A fee is a required charge; a gratuity is generally an additional payment for service.