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tip
/tɪp/
small amount of money
She left a $5 tip for the waiter.
A small amount of money given for good service.
informal
A small sum of money given for service.
He gave the taxi driver a generous tip.
A large amount of money given for service.
Waiters rely on tips to supplement their wages.
Extra income from customers' generosity.
Tips are often 15-20% of the bill in restaurants.
neutral
A pointed or rounded end of something.
The tip of the pencil was broken.
The pointed end of the pencil.
Common in phrases like 'tip of the iceberg'.
neutral
A piece of advice or useful information.
He gave me some useful tips on how to study.
Practical advice or suggestions.
Often used in contexts like cooking, fitness, or technology.
neutral
To touch or move something lightly.
She tipped the glass and some water spilled out.
To cause something to tilt or fall slightly.
Common in phrases like 'tip over'.
Collocations
leave a tipto give money for servicegenerous tipa large amount of money giventip overto cause something to fall or tilttip of the iceberga small visible part of a larger problem
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing meanings of 'tip'
Pay attention to the context. If it's about money, it's likely a gratuity. If it's about the end of something, it's the pointed part. If it's advice, it's a suggestion.
Gold Rule
When to tip
In many cultures, tipping is expected for services like dining, taxis, and haircuts. Research local customs when traveling.
Tipping etiquette
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the bill unless service was poor. For bartenders, tip $1-2 per drink.
Word Origin
From Old English 'tæppa' (point, pinnacle), related to Middle Low German 'tipp' (point). The meaning 'gratuity' emerged in the 18th century, possibly from the idea of giving a small amount as a gesture.
Usage Notes
The word 'tip' has multiple meanings depending on context. In financial contexts, it often refers to money given for service. In geometry or objects, it refers to the end point. In advice-giving, it means a helpful suggestion.
English Dictionary