backsheesh Definition
- 1a tip or gratuity given to someone for their service
- 2bribe or illegal payment given to someone in authority
Using backsheesh: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "backsheesh" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The porter expected a backsheesh for carrying the luggage.
Example
He gave the customs officer a backsheesh to avoid paying taxes.
Example
The politician was caught accepting a large backsheesh from a businessman.
backsheesh Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with backsheesh
to give someone a tip or gratuity for their service
Example
I always give the waiter a backsheesh for good service.
to ask for a tip or gratuity for one's service, often in a pushy or aggressive manner
Example
The beggar kept asking for backsheesh even after I gave him some money.
to pay a bribe or illegal payment to someone in authority
Example
He had to pay a backsheesh to get his passport renewed on time.
Origins of backsheesh
from Persian 'bakhshish', meaning 'gift'
Summary: backsheesh in Brief
'Backsheesh' [bak-sheesh] refers to a tip or gratuity given to someone for their service or a bribe or illegal payment given to someone in authority. It is often used in contexts like 'give someone a backsheesh' or 'ask for backsheesh.'