gratis

adverb or adjective

gra·​tis ˈgra-təs How to pronounce gratis (audio) ˈgrā- How to pronounce gratis (audio)
: without charge or recompense : free
the food was supplied gratis

Did you know?

Gratis comes from the Latin word for "favor;" so in English a party favor is a small item given gratis to everyone attending a party. Gratis is used as both an adjective ("The drinks were gratis") and an adverb ("Drinks were served gratis"). But however it's used, it means "free".

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin gratiis, gratis, from ablative plural of gratia favor — more at grace

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gratis was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near gratis

Cite this Entry

“Gratis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratis. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

gratis

adverb or adjective
gra·​tis ˈgrat-əs How to pronounce gratis (audio) ˈgrāt- How to pronounce gratis (audio)
: without charge : free

More from Merriam-Webster on gratis

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