1. without good reason; unnecessarily
2. without payment; freely given
Usage: formal

Examples

• The movie was criticized for its gratuitously violent scenes.
• He gratuitously insulted his colleague during the meeting.
• The software was gratuitously provided to all students.
• She gratuitously offered her help with the project.
• The article gratuitously attacked the mayor’s character.
• Legal advice was gratuitously given at the community center.