gravy

noun

gra·​vy ˈgrā-vē How to pronounce gravy (audio)
plural gravies
Synonyms of gravynext
1
: a sauce made from the thickened and seasoned juices of cooked meat
2
a
: something additional or unexpected that is pleasing or valuable
with expenses now paid, future money is pure gravy— K. Crossen
b
: unearned or illicit gain : graft entry 3

Synonyms

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Examples of gravy in a Sentence

The bonus he received in addition to his salary was pure gravy. order a large serving of fries with extra gravy
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When Watson defends like this, any offensive success is gravy. — Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 12 Mar. 2025 Chicken & Dumplings comes in a creamy stew sauce with vegetables, while the Beef Pot Roast includes a Southern-style gravy, potatoes, and carrots. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2025 The flavorful beef chunks in a spicy gravy are tender but not mushy, and while many South Side natives swear by adding cheese, the meat needs no adornment. — Edmund Tijerina, Bon Appétit, 27 Feb. 2025 Our neighbors to the north enjoy the dish — a heaping plate of fresh-cut fries topped with cheese curds and gravy — as both an appetizer and a full meal. — Amy Drew Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for gravy

Word History

Etymology

Middle English gravey, from Anglo-French gravé broth, stew

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gravy was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing gravy

Rhymes for gravy

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Browse Nearby Words

gravy
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Cite this Entry

“Gravy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gravy. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

gravy

noun
gra·​vy ˈgrā-vē How to pronounce gravy (audio)
plural gravies
1
: a sauce made from the thickened and seasoned juices of cooked meat
2
: something additional or unexpected that is pleasing or valuable

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