What is perquisite? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of perquisite

perquisitenoun

TIỀM NĂNG

/ˈpɜːkwɪzɪt//ˈpɜːrkwɪzɪt/

Where does the word perquisite come from?

The word "perquisite" originated in the late 18th century from the Latin word "per" meaning "through" and the French word "requisite" meaning "necessary thing". In its earliest usage, it referred to a specific item or benefit provided to an individual in addition to their salary or remuneration. In English, the term "perquisite" was first recorded in the late 1700s as "perquisite wages," referencing extra payments given to members of the British Parliament for performing various duties. Over time, the usage of "perquisite" expanded to include various types of non-monetary benefits, such as company cars, office space, or access to exclusive events, provided as part of an employment package. Today, the term is commonly used across a range of industries and professional contexts to refer to any extra benefit or advantage accrued by an individual beyond their basic compensation.

Vocabulary summary perquisite

typenoun

meaningbonus, extra pay

meaningheirloom

Example of vocabulary perquisitenamespace

meaning

something you receive as well as your wages for doing a particular job

  • The CEO's job description included a number of perquisites, such as a luxury car allowance, a company-paid apartment in a prime location, and regular private flights to important business meetings.
  • One of the main perquisites of being a professional athlete is the opportunity to earn millions of dollars, but some also enjoy access to exclusive sports clubs, lavish meals, and spa treatments.
  • The executive's perquisites included a chauffeured limousine, a private concierge service, and a personal assistant available around the clock.
  • While some people would consider a designer wardrobe and first-class travel to be luxurious perks, others are content with smaller fringe benefits such as casual Fridays, weekly pizza lunches, and early departures on Fridays.
  • Some organizations offer their top performers additional perquisites, such as extra vacation days or the opportunity to work remotely on a regular basis.
meaning

something to which somebody has a special right because of their social position

  • Politics used to be the perquisite of the property-owning classes.

Synonyms and related words for perquisite

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