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Definition of gratuitously

gratuitously

/ɡrəˈtuː.ɪ.təs.li/
gra · tu · i · tous · ly
Adjective:gratuitous
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gratuitously Lexical Profile

gratuitously Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that lacks good reason, justification, or provocation; unnecessarily or unwarrantably.

Example

"The critic complained that the film was gratuitously violent and lacked a coherent plot."

2

Without charge, payment, or recompense; freely or voluntarily (especially in legal or formal contexts).

Example

"The attorney agreed to provide legal counsel gratuitously for the nonprofit organization."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for gratuitously

• Nearby Words

gratingly
gratis
gratitude
gratuitously
gratuitousness
gratuity
grave

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'gratuitous' (borrowed from Latin 'gratuitus', meaning 'done without pay' or 'spontaneous', from 'gratus', 'pleasing, grateful') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gratuitously. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gratuitously
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