Definition of "perquisite" in English

noun

1. (chiefly in the plural) Any monetary or other incidental benefit beyond salary.

   • The perquisites of this job include health insurance and a performance bonus.

2. A gratuity.

   • After the wonderful service that evening he didn’t hesitate in laying a substantial perquisite on the table.
   • One voyage, I recollect, I tipped him a live sheep out of the remnant of my sea-stock: not that I wanted him to do anything for me—he couldn’t, you know—but because his childlike belief in the sacred right to perquisites quite touched my heart.

3. A privilege or possession held or claimed exclusively by a certain person, group or class.

   • Private jets and motor yachts are perquisites of the rich.