"Gratuitous" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
Unnecessary or excessive; done or given without a real reason or justification.
To gratinate means to brown or cook something in the oven, especially a layer of cheese on top of a dish, until it is golden brown and crispy. It is often used to describe the process of melting cheese, such as brie or buffalo mozzarella, to create a caramelized and flavorful topping. The term can also be used to describe the act of cooking food near a heat source, such as under a broiler, to achieve a crispy texture.
Gratinated is the past participle of the verb "gratin", which means to cook something in a dish with a layer of breadcrumbs, cheese, or enriched sauce, typically under the broiler, so that the top becomes golden brown and crispy. The verb is often used to describe a cooking technique, where a dish is prepared by spreading cream, cheese, or other toppings over the food and then grating/broiling it to create a caramelized crust.
Unpleasantly harsh or rough; causing discomfort or annoyance. For example, "The grating sound of the scraping chair against the floor was unbearable."
Gratings refer to a series of parallel strips or bars, typically made of metal or other materials, that are used to provide traction, protection, or support. They are commonly found on stairs, ramps, walkways, and other areas where slipping or falling is a risk. Gratings can also be used in architectural designs to add aesthetic appeal or provide ventilation.
Gratis is an adjective that means free of charge or cost. It can also mean generous or free, often used in an informal or idiomatic sense. For example, "The hotel offered a free breakfast, or so-called 'breakfast' was indeed free, and therefore the breakfast was 'gratis'."
Gratuities refer to small gifts or payments given to someone, typically as a gesture of appreciation or to show gratitude, such as a tip for a service provider, a gift to a host or hostess, or a charitable donation.
Used to describe something that is done freely, unnecessarily, or without sufficient reason, often in a way that is considered annoying or self-indulgent. For example, "The producer gratuitously added special effects to the movie, making it overly long and loud."
Gratuitousness refers to the quality of being excessive, unnecessary, or unwarranted, often in a way that is perceived as annoying or off-putting. It can describe something that is done or said simply for its own sake, without any practical or logical purpose, and often without consideration for its potential impact on others.
Gratuity refers to a tip or a small gift, often given as a sign of appreciation or gratitude, typically in a social or professional context. It can also refer to an extra payment made as a token of appreciation, such as a tip left for a server at a restaurant.
Past participle of the verb "gratulate", which means to congratulate or express pleasure at something, typically in a formal or official manner.
To gratulate someone means to felicitate or congratulate them, typically on a significant occasion such as a wedding, anniversary, or achievement. It can also mean to express praise or admiration for someone's efforts or accomplishments.
Gratulatory refers to something that is complimentary or congratulatory, typically in a formal or official manner. It can also describe a statement or expression of praise or congratulations, usually given to someone who has achieved something notable or remarkable.
Graubünden is a canton in southeastern Switzerland. It is one of the most eastern and largest cantons of Switzerland, and its name is derived from the German words "Grau" meaning grey and "Bünden" meaning leagues or treaties. The name refers to the fact that the canton was formed as a alliance or league of grey-bearded men. It is known for its picturesque mountains, valleys, and charming villages, and is often referred to as the "Rhätisches Bund" (Romantic League) due to its stunning scenery and historic significance.