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
For example, some restaurants add automatic gratuities for large groups, while others use service fees to help cover employee benefits or operating expenses.
—
Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 May 2026
Ask the front desk to add a gratuity to your bill.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 14 May 2026
The delivery fee is not a gratuity, so if you are only being charged the delivery fee, an extra tip for the driver is a thoughtful gesture.
—Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 May 2026
During the meeting, restaurateurs discussed adding an automatic 20% gratuity charge to customers' restaurant bills.
—Joe Brandt, CBS News, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
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Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 May 2026
Ask the front desk to add a gratuity to your bill.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 14 May 2026
The delivery fee is not a gratuity, so if you are only being charged the delivery fee, an extra tip for the driver is a thoughtful gesture.
—Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 May 2026
During the meeting, restaurateurs discussed adding an automatic 20% gratuity charge to customers' restaurant bills.
—Joe Brandt, CBS News, 1 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratuity
Cite this Entry
“Gratuity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratuity. Accessed 21 May. 2026.
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