Meaning & Definition of word "Tip"

Tip

/tɪp/

noun:

  • 1. A small amount of money given to someone for their services as a gesture of thanks.
    • Example: I left a tip for the waiter after enjoying the delicious meal.
  • 2. A piece of advice or helpful information.
    • Example: She gave me a helpful tip about how to organize my time better.
  • 3. The pointed or slender end of something.
    • Example: He carefully painted the tip of the brush before starting his artwork.

verb:

  • 1. To give a gratuity to (someone) for their service.
    • Example: We decided to tip the taxi driver for his excellent service.
  • 2. To give someone information or an idea about something.
    • Example: He tipped me off about the sale at the store.
  • 3. To incline or tilt something.
    • Example: She tipped the cup to pour out the last drops of coffee.

Etymology

Middle English tippe; of uncertain origin, possibly related to the Dutch 'tip' meaning 'to cover'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

tip of the iceberg:

A small, visible part of a much larger problem.

tip someone off:

To give someone an informal warning or piece of information.

tip the scales:

To influence a decision or outcome.

Related Words

gratuity:

A payment made in addition to the basic price.

advice:

An opinion or recommendation about what to do.

Slang Meanings of tip

Meaning: A small piece of advice or information.

Example Sentence: I got a great tip on where to find cheap flights.

Meaning: A warning about something.

Example Sentence: He tipped me off about the traffic jam.