Gratis
/ˈɡrætɪs/noun
Given or done for free; without charge.
Did you know?“Gratis” entered English through Latin, where it meant “for favor” or “as a gift,” and it shares a root with words about pleasing and gratitude, showing how old languages tied generosity to obligation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*gʷerə-
“To praise, welcome, or be grateful”
Latin
Latin
grātia
“Favor, goodwill, thanks”
Late Latin
Latin
grātīs
“For favor; without payment”
Middle English
English
gratis
“Given free of charge”
Modern English
English
gratis
“Free; without cost”
Explore more surprising origins