gratuity
UK: ɡrəˈtjuːɪti | US: ɡrəˈtuːɪti
n. a sum of money given voluntarily or beyond obligation, typically in appreciation for a service (e.g., a tip).
n. (formal) something given without claim or demand.
The word "gratuity" traces back to Latin gratuitas, meaning "a free gift" or "favor," derived from gratus ("pleasing, thankful"). Over time, it evolved in Old French as gratuité, retaining the sense of something given freely. In English, it narrowed to specifically denote voluntary payments (e.g., tips) as tokens of gratitude. The morpheme grat- reflects the core idea of thankfulness, while -uity nominalizes the concept.
The waiter received a generous gratuity for his excellent service.
In some cultures, gratuities are included in the bill by default.
She left a small gratuity on the hotel pillow for the housekeeper.
The taxi driver smiled when he noticed the gratuity tucked under his sun visor.
Gratuities are customary in the hospitality industry but not legally required.