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Gratuity

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A gift or payment made for services rendered, typically given voluntarily and in addition to a standard payment.
2. A sum of money given to someone as a tip for services, such as in restaurants or hospitality.
3. A financial benefit or retirement payment provided by an employer to an employee as a form of appreciation for long service.

History and Origin

The word “gratuity” originates from the Latin gratia, meaning “favor” or “thanks.” In the 15th century, it began to be used in English to refer to a gift or payment made as a form of appreciation or recognition. Initially, it was used in the context of gifts or payments given out of gratitude, and over time, it came to specifically refer to tips or bonuses given for services rendered.

Detailed Explanation

“Gratuity” is most commonly associated with the practice of giving a tip or bonus to someone as a form of appreciation, usually for services such as those provided by waitstaff, hotel employees, or drivers. In many cultures, gratuities are customary in service industries and are given voluntarily by customers based on the quality of the service. Additionally, gratuity can refer to a financial reward given by an employer to an employee, often at the end of a long period of service, such as a retirement gratuity. The key aspect of gratuity is that it is typically not required by law but is given as a gesture of thanks or recognition.

Example Sentences

1. She left a generous gratuity for the waiter after an excellent dinner.
2. The company offered a substantial gratuity to employees who had been with them for over 20 years.
3. He was given a gratuity for his outstanding service during the event.
4. The driver was pleased to receive a gratuity from the passengers for his helpfulness.
5. It is customary to provide a gratuity for hotel housekeeping staff.
6. The employee was surprised by the gratuity he received upon retiring.
7. He was grateful for the gratuity left by the guest after the tour.
8. The gratuity policy was outlined in the contract, ensuring workers would receive extra pay for their hard work.
9. After the successful event, the organizers presented a gratuity to the volunteers.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Tip – A small amount of money given to someone for a service, especially in restaurants or hospitality.
2. Bonus – A payment given as a reward for performance or service, typically beyond regular compensation.
3. Gift – A voluntary transfer of money or goods given as a token of appreciation or gratitude.
4. Reward – A payment or benefit given in recognition of someone’s actions or achievements.
5. Honorarium – A payment made to someone for services rendered, usually on a voluntary basis or outside their regular employment.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Compensation – Money or benefits provided to someone in exchange for their services or work.
2. Benefit – A financial advantage or payment, often provided as part of a work package.
3. Remuneration – The payment or salary for services rendered.
4. Perquisite – A special right or benefit enjoyed by someone as part of their employment or position.
5. Allowance – A sum of money given regularly for a specific purpose, such as travel or living expenses.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Endowment – A financial gift or fund, typically given to an institution or individual.
2. Commission – A payment based on the sale or service performed, often given to employees in sales roles.
3. Pension – A regular payment made to someone after retirement, often based on length of service.
4. Reimbursement – The act of repaying someone for expenses they have incurred.
5. Stipend – A fixed sum of money given to someone for their work, typically in the context of an internship or academic position.

Antonyms

1. Penalty
2. Fine
3. Deduction
4. Imposition
5. Forfeiture