Gra*tu"i*tous (?) a. [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.