The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

gratuity

IPA:

Dictionary definition of gratuity

A sum of money given to someone as a token of appreciation for a service rendered, also known as a tip.
"He left a generous gratuity for the waiter who provided excellent service."

Detailed meaning of gratuity

It is typically given to service employees such as waiters, bellhops, and taxi drivers, but can also be given to other professionals such as hairstylists, barbers and delivery drivers. The amount of the gratuity is typically left to the discretion of the person giving it, but there are also common customs and expectations for certain types of service, such as leaving a 15-20% tip in restaurants. Gratuities are not always expected or required, but they are often given as a way to show appreciation for good service or to acknowledge the work and effort of the person providing the service. Gratuity can also be given as a gift or a way to show generosity, appreciation and gratitude.

Example sentences containing gratuity

1. The restaurant automatically added a gratuity to our bill for large groups.
2. I always make sure to tip generously because gratuity is an important way to show appreciation.
3. The hotel staff went above and beyond, so I left an extra gratuity for their exceptional service.
4. The company policy states that gratuity is not included in the quoted price.
5. We received a surprise gratuity from a satisfied customer who was impressed with our work.
6. The waiter was disappointed when the customer left a small gratuity after receiving excellent service.

History and etymology of gratuity

The noun 'gratuity' has its etymological roots in Latin and Old French. It is derived from the Latin word 'gratuitas,' which means 'free gift' or 'generosity.' In Old French, this term evolved into 'gratuite,' emphasizing the idea of something given voluntarily or as an act of kindness. Over time, 'gratuite' made its way into English as 'gratuity,' specifically referring to a sum of money given to someone as a token of appreciation for a service rendered. The etymology of 'gratuity' effectively captures its historical association with the notion of a voluntary and generous gift or token of thanks, highlighting its role as a term used to describe a tip or a show of gratitude for services provided.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun gratuity:

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Further usage examples of gratuity

1. In some countries, gratuity is considered an insult and not expected at all.
2. The tour guide provided us with valuable information and we showed our gratitude with a gratuity.
3. The taxi driver was thrilled when the passenger gave a generous gratuity for the quick and safe ride.
4. The salon includes gratuity in the price of their services, so there's no need to tip separately.
5. The staff at the resort was so friendly and attentive that we happily left a gratuity at the end of our stay.
6. The cruise ship automatically adds a gratuity to the final bill for the convenience of passengers.
7. The bellboy was thrilled to receive a gratuity from the appreciative guest who he had assisted.
8. The gratuity for the caterers was included in the event package, so there was no need for additional tipping.
9. The barista was surprised and grateful when a customer left a gratuity for their exceptional latte art.
10. The customer felt obligated to leave a gratuity, even though the service at the restaurant was subpar.
11. The hotel concierge discreetly handed the guest an envelope containing a gratuity for their assistance.
12. The masseuse was disappointed when the client failed to leave a gratuity after the relaxing massage.
13. We were pleasantly surprised to find a gratuity included in the bill at the end of our private tour.
14. The hair salon encourages customers to express their satisfaction by leaving a gratuity for the stylists.