backsheesh
Definition
Noun: A small sum of money given as a gift, gratuity, or tip, especially to someone for a service rendered.
Usage
"Backsheesh" is used to refer to a tip or small monetary gift given to someone, such as a waiter, porter, or guide, in return for a service. It often carries connotations of a customary practice in certain cultures, particularly in parts of Asia and the Middle East. It can also imply a small bribe to facilitate a service.
Examples
- The traveler gave the hotel porter some backsheesh for carrying his luggage.
- In some markets, vendors expect a little backsheesh after a sale.
- He offered backsheesh to the official to speed up the paperwork.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used more broadly to describe any small, unofficial payment meant to grease the wheels or show appreciation, sometimes blurring the line between a tip and a minor bribe.
- It is often associated with travel narratives and historical accounts of regions where such tipping customs are entrenched.
Variants and Related Words
- Baksheesh (noun): The most common alternate spelling.
- Bakshish (noun): Another less common variant spelling.
- Tip (noun): A more common and neutral synonym in modern English.
- Gratuity (noun): A more formal synonym.
Synonyms
- Tip
- Gratuity
- Perquisite (perk)
- Largess (a generous gift, can be similar in context)
Idioms and Phrases
- To give backsheesh: To offer such a payment.
- It was customary to give backsheesh to the guides at the end of the tour.
Noun
-
a relatively small amount of money given for services rendered (as by a waiter)
