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 of gravy

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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.
There are biscuits and gravy for breakfast, a variety of classic sandwiches for lunch and, of course, soups. — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 18 Aug. 2026 There is also a whole menu section dedicated to different types of biscuits and gravy. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Aug. 2026 Try the biscuit sandwiches with egg and sausage or bacon, or the sausage and gravy biscuits. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 15 Aug. 2026 Breakfast is a major focus, with traditional eggs-and-meat platters, biscuits and gravy, grits, home fries, hash browns, pancakes, waffles, French toast and a variety of omelets. — Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 12 Aug. 2026 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

gravure
gravy
gravy boat
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Cite this Entry

“Gravy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gravy. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on gravy

Nglish: Translation of gravy for Spanish Speakers

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