1. a gift or payment made to secure favor or influence; a bribe or gratuity
Usage: formal; often euphemistic

Examples

• The official expected a small douceur for expediting the permit process.
• He offered a douceur to the maitre d’ to secure the best table.
• The diplomat’s memoirs hinted at various douceurs exchanged during negotiations.
• Such douceurs were common practice in the corrupt administration.
• The customs officer was dismissed for accepting douceurs from smugglers.
• A modest douceur ensured prompt service at the exclusive restaurant.