noun / verb

tip

TIP/tɪp/

An extra payment for service, or to give such a payment.

The customer gives the waiter a tip after paying for the meal.

After a restaurant meal, a customer gives a waiter a few coins while he clears her dishes; her returned bank card and payment terminal sit separately on the table, distinguishing the small cash gratuity from the meal payment.

Etymology

The earlier verb meant “give, hand, pass” in thieves’ cant. It narrowed to giving a small monetary present for service, and the noun names that payment; the verb’s deeper origin is uncertain.

In context

Beyond Borders Etiquette 0:29

meant to cover the cost of service and is usually paid directly to the restaurant, not just the server. Because it is a mandatory fee, it is different from a tip, which is optional

Should You Tip When A Service Charge Is Included? - Beyond Borders Etiquette

More examples

She tipped the driver generously.
They have left a tip on the table.
He is tipping the guide before leaving.

Forms

tip · tips · tipped · tipping

Similar words

gratuity: The more formal term for money given for service.
bonus: Extra payment that need not come from a customer.