Perquisite
/ˈpɜːr.kwɪ.zɪt/noun
A benefit or privilege received in addition to regular pay or entitlement.
Did you know?Perquisite first meant “something obtained by asking or seeking,” from Latin *perquirere* (“to search for thoroughly”), and only later became a salary bonus or special privilege.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
perquirere
“to search for thoroughly, seek out”
Late Latin
Latin
perquisitum
“something obtained by careful search”
Middle English
English
perquisite
“something acquired by special effort or request”
17th Century
English
perquisite
“a benefit or privilege beyond regular pay”
Modern English
English
perquisite
“an extra benefit or privilege attached to an office or position”