Definition

Something that is given or done without any payment or reason; often unnecessary or unwarranted.

Example

The movie was criticized for its gratuitous violence.

Conversation

Did you see that movie with all the gratuitous violence?

Yeah, it felt a bit over the top for me.

I get that, sometimes it just seems unnecessary.

Exactly! A good story doesn’t need all that extra stuff.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gratuitous → It is formed from "gratus" (meaning pleasing or thankful) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of). The word "gratuitous" originally referred to something that is pleasing or given freely, without charge.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'pleasing' ('gratus') and 'full of' ('-ous') — that's why gratuitous means something given freely or without charge.

Visually Confused Words