Top 41 Slang For Tips – Meaning & Usage

Tired of feeling out of the loop when it comes to slang for tipping? We’ve got you covered. From the latest phrases to the most popular terms, our team has put together a list that will have you tipping like a pro in no time. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to being in the know with our comprehensive guide to the top slang for tips.

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1. Gratuity

Gratuity refers to the additional amount of money given to service workers, typically in the hospitality industry, as a token of appreciation for their services. It is often added to the bill or given directly to the service provider.

For example, “Please remember to leave a gratuity for the waiter who served us.”
In a discussion about restaurant etiquette, someone might say, “It’s customary to leave a 15-20% gratuity for good service.”
A customer might ask, “Does the gratuity go to the staff or the restaurant?”

2. Tip

A tip is a sum of money given to someone as a reward or gratitude for their service. It is commonly given to service workers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers.

For instance, “Don’t forget to leave a tip for the delivery driver.”
In a conversation about travel, someone might mention, “It’s important to tip the hotel staff for their assistance.”
A person might ask, “What’s the appropriate tip for a hairdresser?”

3. Bonus

A bonus is an additional amount of money given to someone as a reward or incentive for their work. It can also refer to a special payment given on top of regular wages or salary.

For example, “The company gave out year-end bonuses to all employees.”
In a discussion about job benefits, someone might mention, “Some companies offer performance-based bonuses.”
A person might say, “I received a bonus for exceeding my sales targets.”

4. Thank-you

Thank-you is a phrase used to express gratitude or appreciation towards someone for their help, service, or gift. It can also be used as a noun to refer to a gesture or gift given as a token of thanks.

For instance, “I want to say a big thank-you to everyone who supported me.”
In a conversation about manners, someone might say, “Always remember to say thank-you when someone does something nice for you.”
A person might write a thank-you note to express their appreciation for a thoughtful gift.

5. Appreciation

Appreciation refers to the recognition and gratitude towards someone or something. It can also imply understanding and valuing the worth or importance of someone’s actions or qualities.

For example, “I want to express my appreciation for your hard work.”
In a discussion about art, someone might say, “I have a deep appreciation for abstract paintings.”
A person might say, “I have a great appreciation for nature and its beauty.”

6. Baksheesh

Baksheesh is a term used in some cultures to refer to a small amount of money given as a tip or bribe. It is often given to someone in a position of power or authority to gain favor or expedite a service.

For example, a traveler might give baksheesh to a customs officer to speed up the process of getting through the airport.
In some countries, it is customary to give baksheesh to a hotel staff member for providing extra services or assistance.
The term can also be used figuratively to describe any form of gratuity or extra payment.

7. Sweetener

Sweetener is a term used to describe an additional payment or benefit given to enhance a transaction or service. It is often used as a form of incentive or motivation to encourage better service or to close a deal.

For instance, a salesman might offer a sweetener in the form of a discount or bonus to entice a customer to make a purchase.
In the restaurant industry, a server might receive a sweetener from a customer as a token of appreciation for exceptional service.
The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any form of extra benefit or advantage.

8. Lagniappe

Lagniappe is a term used in some cultures, particularly in the southern United States and the Caribbean, to describe a small gift or gratuity given to show appreciation. It is often given in addition to the regular payment or tip.

For example, a customer might give lagniappe to a hairdresser for a job well done.
In some communities, it is customary to give lagniappe to a service provider during the holiday season.
The term can also be used to describe any unexpected bonus or extra that brings joy or surprise.

9. Stiff

Stiff is a slang term used to describe the act of not leaving a tip or leaving a very small tip. It is considered rude or disrespectful to stiff a service worker who relies on tips as a significant part of their income.

For instance, if a customer receives poor service or is dissatisfied with their experience, they might choose to stiff the server.
In some cases, a customer may stiff a service worker intentionally as a form of protest or to express their dissatisfaction with the establishment.
The term can also be used as a noun to refer to a person who habitually stiffs service workers.

10. Tipping point

Tipping point is a term used to describe the point at which a person decides to leave a tip. It is the moment when a customer evaluates the quality of service they received and determines whether or not to leave a gratuity.

For example, if a server provides exceptional service, it may be the tipping point for a customer to leave a generous tip.
On the other hand, if a customer has a negative experience, it may be the tipping point for them to withhold a tip or leave a smaller gratuity.
The term can also be used metaphorically to describe the critical moment or factor that leads to a particular outcome or decision.

11. Grease

In the context of tips, “grease” refers to extra money given to a service worker as a tip or gratuity. It implies a little something extra, beyond the standard tip amount.

For example, a customer might say to a server, “Here’s a little extra grease for you, thanks for the great service.”
A bartender might say, “I always appreciate a little grease from my regular customers.”
A taxi driver might say, “Some passengers are generous with their grease, others not so much.”

12. Handout

In the context of tips, a “handout” refers to a tip given out of charity or pity, rather than as a reward for good service. It implies that the tip is given to help someone in need.

For instance, a customer might say to a struggling server, “Here’s a little handout for you, times are tough.”
A patron might give a handout to a street performer, saying, “Keep up the good work, here’s a little something for you.”
A customer might leave a handout for a homeless person who provided a service, such as washing windshields.

13. Gravy

In the context of tips, “gravy” refers to easy or extra money received as a tip. It implies that the tip was effortless or unexpected.

For example, a server might say, “Today’s shift was great, I made a lot of gravy.”
A taxi driver might say, “Late nights are when I make the most gravy.”
A bartender might say, “The holiday season is always a time for extra gravy.”

14. Swag

In the context of tips, “swag” refers to a generous or impressive tip. It implies that the tip is cool or stylish.

For instance, a customer might say to a server, “You provided excellent service, here’s some swag for you.”
A patron might say to a bartender, “That cocktail was amazing, here’s some swag as a thank you.”
A customer might say to a taxi driver, “You got me to my destination quickly and safely, here’s some swag for your excellent driving.”

15. Jackpot

In the context of tips, “jackpot” refers to a large or substantial tip. It implies that the tip is a big win or success.

For example, a customer might say to a server, “That was the best meal I’ve ever had, here’s a jackpot for you.”
A patron might say to a bartender, “You made the perfect drink, here’s a jackpot as a thank you.”
A customer might say to a taxi driver, “You went above and beyond, here’s a jackpot for your exceptional service.”

16. Boon

A “boon” refers to a helpful or advantageous situation or event. In the context of tips, it can be used to describe a generous or unexpected tip.

For example, “Getting a large tip from a customer was a real boon for the waiter.”
A server might say, “I had a great night at work – the tips were a real boon.”
Someone might describe a financial windfall as a “boon” by saying,“boon” by saying, “Winning the lottery was a boon for their financial situation.”

17. Bounty

A “bounty” is a term used to describe a large amount of money or a generous reward. In the context of tips, it can refer to a substantial tip given to a service worker.

For instance, “The customer left a bounty of cash as a tip for the excellent service.”
A waiter might say, “I was surprised by the bounty left by the customer at table 5.”
Someone might exclaim, “What a bounty! This tip will really help me out.”

18. Windfall

A “windfall” is an unexpected or sudden influx of money or financial gain. In the context of tips, it can refer to a larger-than-usual or unexpected tip received by a service worker.

For example, “The server was thrilled with the windfall of tips from the busy night.”
A bartender might say, “I had a windfall of tips during the holiday season.”
Someone might describe a significant tip as a “windfall” by saying,“windfall” by saying, “I received a windfall in tips today that will cover my bills.”

19. Perk

A “perk” is an additional benefit or advantage that comes along with a particular situation or job. In the context of tips, it can refer to the extra income received from gratuities.

For instance, “One of the perks of being a server is the potential for high tips.”
A service worker might say, “I rely on tips as a major perk of my job.”
Someone might describe the financial advantages of a particular profession by saying, “One of the perks of being a delivery driver is the tips.”

20. Thank you money

“Thank you money” is a colloquial term used to refer to a tip given as a way of expressing gratitude or appreciation for a service or favor received.

For example, “The customer left a generous amount of thank you money for the excellent service.”
A recipient might say, “I always appreciate receiving thank you money for going above and beyond.”
Someone might describe a tip as “thank you money” by saying,“thank you money” by saying, “The tip was a token of their appreciation, a little thank you money for a job well done.”

21. Gratuities

Gratuities refer to the extra money given to service industry workers as a token of appreciation for good service. It is another word for tips.

For example, “Don’t forget to leave a gratuity for the waiter.”
In a discussion about tipping customs, someone might say, “In some countries, gratuities are already included in the bill.”
A person complaining about poor service might exclaim, “I can’t believe they expected a gratuity after that terrible experience!”

22. Backhander

Backhander is slang for a secret or illegal payment given as a bribe or to influence someone’s actions in a dishonest way.

For instance, “The politician was caught accepting backhanders from lobbyists.”
In a discussion about corruption, someone might say, “Backhanders are a major problem in the business world.”
A person expressing cynicism about a decision might comment, “I bet there were some backhanders involved in that choice.”

23. Bung

Bung is a slang term for a bribe or kickback, which refers to a secret payment made to someone in return for illegal or dishonest favors.

For example, “The contractor received a bung in exchange for awarding the construction project.”
In a discussion about corruption, someone might say, “Bungs are a common practice in some industries.”
A person expressing suspicion might say, “I smell a bung behind that shady deal.”

24. Dash

Dash is slang for an extra amount of money given as a tip or gratuity.

For instance, “I left a dash to show my appreciation for the excellent service.”
In a discussion about tipping etiquette, someone might say, “It’s customary to leave a dash for exceptional service.”
A person bragging about their generosity might say, “I always leave a generous dash for good service.”

25. Largesse

Largesse refers to a generous or extravagant gift or tip given to someone as a gesture of kindness or appreciation.

For example, “The wealthy patron showed his largesse by leaving a large tip.”
In a discussion about philanthropy, someone might say, “Largesse is an important aspect of giving back to society.”
A person praising someone’s generosity might comment, “Their largesse knows no bounds.”

26. Memento

This slang term refers to a tip or gratuity given to a service worker. It is often used in the context of leaving a tip at a restaurant or for other services.

For example, “Don’t forget to leave a memento for the waiter.”
In a discussion about tipping, someone might say, “I always make sure to leave a memento for good service.”
A person might ask, “What’s the standard memento for a hairdresser?”

27. Pourboire

This is a French term that translates to “tip” in English. It is often used to refer to a gratuity given to a service worker, particularly in French-speaking countries.

For instance, “Make sure to leave a pourboire for the bellboy.”
A traveler might ask, “What’s the customary pourboire for a taxi driver in Paris?”
In a discussion about international customs, someone might say, “In some countries, a pourboire is expected and not optional.”

28. Vail

This term is used to refer to a tip or gratuity given to a service worker. It can be used in the context of leaving a tip at a restaurant, hotel, or other service establishments.

For example, “Don’t forget to leave a vail for the bartender.”
A person might ask, “What’s the appropriate vail for a tour guide?”
In a discussion about tipping etiquette, someone might say, “I always make sure to leave a vail for good service.”

29. Stipend

This term is often used to refer to a tip or gratuity given to a service worker. It can also be used more broadly to mean a fixed amount of money paid regularly for a specific purpose, such as a student stipend.

For instance, “Make sure to leave a stipend for the valet.”
A person might ask, “What’s the average stipend for a hairdresser?”
In a discussion about tipping practices, someone might say, “I believe in giving a generous stipend for exceptional service.”

30. Juice

This slang term is used to refer to a tip or gratuity given to a service worker. It is often used in informal or casual conversations.

For example, “Don’t forget to leave some juice for the delivery driver.”
A person might ask, “What’s the usual juice for a hotel housekeeper?”
In a discussion about tipping norms, someone might say, “I always make sure to leave a little extra juice for great service.”

31. Moolah

This slang term is used to refer to money in general. It is often used in a casual or playful manner.

For example, “I need to save up some moolah before going on vacation.”
A person might say, “I’ll give you some moolah if you help me with this task.”
In a conversation about finances, someone might mention, “I’m trying to make more moolah by taking on extra freelance work.”

32. Greenback

This slang term specifically refers to the United States dollar. It originates from the color of the currency.

For instance, “I need to exchange my greenbacks for euros before my trip.”
A person might say, “I found a few greenbacks in my old jacket pocket.”
In a discussion about international trade, someone might mention, “The value of the greenback has been fluctuating in recent months.”

33. Scratch

This slang term is used to refer to money, particularly in the form of cash.

For example, “I need some scratch to pay for dinner tonight.”
A person might say, “I’m always on the lookout for ways to earn extra scratch.”
In a conversation about finances, someone might mention, “I’ve been saving up my scratch for a new car.”

34. Toke

In the context of tips, “toke” is a slang term used to refer to a gratuity or a small amount of money given as a tip.

For instance, “Be sure to leave a toke for the waiter.”
A person might say, “I always make sure to leave a toke for good service.”
In a discussion about tipping etiquette, someone might mention, “It’s customary to leave a toke of about 10% of the bill.”

35. Christmas Box

This slang term specifically refers to a tip given during the Christmas season as a gesture of appreciation or gratitude.

For example, “I always give my mail carrier a Christmas box as a thank you.”
A person might say, “I’m planning to give my hairdresser a Christmas box this year.”
In a conversation about holiday traditions, someone might mention, “In my family, we always give a Christmas box to our regular service providers.”

36. Reward

A reward is a form of compensation or recognition given to someone for their efforts or achievements. It can come in various forms such as money, gifts, or other incentives. The term “bonus” is often used interchangeably with reward.

For example, an employer might say, “If you meet your sales target, you’ll receive a cash reward.”
A teacher might offer a reward to students who perform well on a test, saying, “The top scorers will get a special bonus.”
In a sports competition, the winning team might receive a reward in the form of a trophy or medal.

37. Incentive

An incentive is something that motivates or encourages someone to take a particular action or behave in a certain way. It can be a reward or benefit offered to stimulate interest or effort. The term “motive” is often used synonymously with incentive.

For instance, a company might provide financial incentives to employees who exceed their sales targets, saying, “This bonus will serve as a strong motive for you to perform better.”
In the context of weight loss, a person might say, “The prospect of fitting into a smaller size is a great incentive to stick to a healthy diet.”
A teacher might use extra recess time as an incentive for students to complete their assignments on time.

38. Gratitude

Gratitude is the feeling of being thankful or appreciative of someone or something. It is often expressed as a form of acknowledgment or recognition for a kind gesture or assistance. The term “appreciation” is commonly used interchangeably with gratitude.

For example, a person might say, “I want to express my gratitude to everyone who supported me during a difficult time.”
When receiving a gift, it is polite to show gratitude by saying, “Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.”
A manager might express gratitude to their team for their hard work, saying, “I want to show my appreciation for all your efforts. Thank you.”

39. Acknowledgment

Acknowledgment is the act of recognizing or admitting the existence, validity, or importance of someone or something. It can also refer to expressing gratitude or appreciation for someone’s contribution or achievement. The term “recognition” is often used synonymously with acknowledgment.

For instance, a person might say, “I want to give a special acknowledgment to my parents for their unwavering support.”
When someone helps you, it is important to give them acknowledgment by saying, “Thank you for your assistance. I truly appreciate it.”
In a formal setting, a speaker might begin their speech with an acknowledgment of the event organizers and attendees.

40. Recognition

Recognition is the act of acknowledging or identifying someone or something as valid, important, or deserving of attention or praise. It can also refer to the acknowledgment or appreciation of someone’s achievements or contributions. The term “validation” is often used interchangeably with recognition.

For example, a company might give out awards to employees as a form of recognition for their outstanding performance.
When someone accomplishes a difficult task, it is important to give them recognition by saying, “You did an amazing job. Your hard work deserves validation.”
In the field of art, recognition from critics and peers is often seen as a validation of an artist’s talent and skill.

41. Offering

This term refers to a container or receptacle where customers can leave tips or gratuities for service staff. It is commonly used in the hospitality industry, such as in restaurants, cafes, or bars.

For example, a server might say, “Thank you for your generous contribution to the tip jar.”
A customer might ask, “Where can I find the tip jar in this establishment?”
A bartender might notice, “The tip jar is overflowing tonight, we must be doing something right!”