Baksheesh
/ˌbækˈʃiːʃ/noun
Money or a gift given as a tip, bribe, or charitable offering, especially in parts of the Middle East and South Asia.
Did you know?Baksheesh is related to Persian ideas of giving and to Sanskrit bhakti, linking the word’s ancient family with both divine devotion and the expected exchange of gifts.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bhag-
“To share out, apportion, or receive a portion”
Ancient Sanskrit
Sanskrit
bhaj-
“To divide, share, participate in, or worship”
Middle Persian
Middle Persian
baxš
“A share, portion, or allotment”
Medieval Persian
Persian
baxšīdan
“To give, grant, or bestow”
Medieval Persian
Persian
baxšīš
“A gift, donation, or gratuity”
18th–19th Century
English
baksheesh
“A customary gift or tip, later also a bribe”
Explore more surprising origins