In the 18th century, the Swedish government made coffee and its paraphernalia (including cups and dishes) illegal for its supposed ties to rebellious sentiment.
GRATUITOUSLY
gratuitously
(adverb) in an uncalled-for manner; “he insulted us gratuitously”
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Adverb
gratuitously (comparative more gratuitously, superlative most gratuitously)
Freely; in the manner of a gift, without being earned.
In a manner not demanded by the circumstances, without reason, justification, cause, or proof.
Source: Wiktionary
GRATUITOUS
Gra*tu"i*tous a. Etym: [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.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
Recent Word Finds
Word of the Day
10 March 2025
FABLED
(adjective) celebrated in fable or legend; “the fabled Paul Bunyan and his blue ox”; “legendary exploits of Jesse James”
Coffee Trivia
