propina
“propina” means “tip” in Spanish (gratuity for service).
tip
Also: gratuity
📝 In Action
¿Dejamos una propina del diez por ciento?
A1Should we leave a ten percent tip?
El camarero fue muy amable, le daré una buena propina.
A2The waiter was very kind, I will give him a good tip.
En este restaurante, la propina ya está incluida en la cuenta.
B1In this restaurant, the gratuity is already included in the bill.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: propina
Question 1 of 1
If you say 'La propina es obligatoria,' what are you referring to?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin phrase *propinare*, which originally meant 'to offer to drink' or 'to offer a beverage.' This idea of offering a small gift or treat evolved into the modern sense of giving a little extra money for good service.
First recorded: 15th century (with the meaning of a gift)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'propina' the same as 'cambio'?
No. 'Propina' is the voluntary money you give for service (the tip). 'Cambio' means 'change' or 'the money you get back' after paying, although sometimes people may leave the 'cambio' as the 'propina'.
How do I ask if the tip is included?
You can ask, '¿Está incluida la propina?' (Is the tip included?) or '¿Se incluye el servicio?' (Is the service charge included?).