2 definitions found
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]:
Gratuitous \Gra*tu"i*tous\a. [L. gratuitus, from gratus
pleasing. See {Grate}, a., {Gratis.}]
1. Given without an equivalent or recompense; conferred
without valuable consideration; granted without pay or
without claim or merit; not required by justice.
We mistake the gratuitous blessings of Heaven for
the fruits of our own industry. --L'Estrange.
2. Not called for by the circumstances; without reason,
cause or proof; adopted or asserted without any good
ground; as a gratuitous assumption.
Acts of gratuitous self-humiliation. --De Quincye.
-- {Gra*tu"i*tous*ly}, adv -- {Gra*tu"i*tous*ness}, n.
From WordNet r 1.6 [wn]:
gratuitously
adv : in an uncalled-for manner; "he insulted us gratuitously"
more about gratuitously
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Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
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