The pointed or rounded end of something, like the tip of a pencil or finger. It also means a small amount of extra money given for good service, or a helpful piece of advice.
The 'end' meaning comes from Middle English 'tip' or 'tipp,' likely imitative of a point or tap. The 'gratuity' sense may come from 17th‑century slang 'tip' meaning 'to give, hand over,' possibly from a thieves’ cant term. The 'advice' meaning grew from the idea of giving someone a helpful hint.
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