How Do You Spell BACKSHISH?

Pronunciation: [bˈakʃɪʃ] (IPA)

The word "Backshish" is spelled with a combination of letters that may seem confusing at first glance. The correct way to spell it is /bækˈʃiːʃ/, with the "a" pronounced as "æ," the "k" as a hard "k," and the "sh" pronounced as "ʃ." The word comes from the Turkish word "bakşış," which means a tip or gratuity given in gratitude. The spelling may seem difficult for those not familiar with Turkish pronunciation, but with the IPA phonetic transcription, it is easier to understand.

BACKSHISH Meaning and Definition

1. Backshish, also spelled baksheesh, is a term derived from Persian and Turkish origins, used to describe an illicit form of gratuity or bribery, typically in exchange for preferential treatment or special favors. It refers to the act of giving money, gifts, or other forms of compensation to individuals in positions of power or authority in order to influence their actions or gain personal advantage.

   The term is predominantly used in Middle Eastern and South Asian contexts, where backshish is often employed as a cultural practice to expedite bureaucratic or administrative processes, bypass legal procedures, or secure preferential services. It can be seen as a way to accelerate tasks such as obtaining permits, resolving legal matters, or receiving prompt and efficient service in various domains.

   Backshish is criticized as a corrupt practice that perpetuates inequality, as it allows individuals with financial means to receive preferential treatment, disadvantaging those without the resources to pay. It undermines the principles of impartiality, fairness, and meritocracy, and can perpetuate a culture of corruption within society.

   In a broader sense, the term backshish may also be used more leniently to describe a non-strictly illicit form of tipping or gratuity, common in some regions. This can include giving small sums of money or gifts to service providers, such as waiters or taxi drivers, as a token of appreciation for their services. In these cases, backshish is often viewed as customary rather than an act of corruption.

Common Misspellings for BACKSHISH

• vackshish
• nackshish
• hackshish
• gackshish
• bzckshish
• bsckshish
• bwckshish
• bqckshish
• baxkshish
• bavkshish
• bafkshish
• badkshish
• bacjshish
• bacmshish
• baclshish
• bacoshish
• bacishish
• backahish
• backzhish

Etymology of BACKSHISH

The word "backshish" originates from the Turkish word "bakşiş". In Turkish, "bakşiş" means a tip or a gratuity given to someone as a form of reward or appreciation. The term entered the English language in the 18th century through interactions and trade between European merchants and Turkish traders. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of "bakşiş" evolved into "backshish" in English. The word has since been used to refer to a bribe or a small sum of money given as a bribe, particularly in contexts where corruption or unofficial payments are common.

Similar spelling words for BACKSHISH

• backsheesh,
• baksheesh,
• bakshish,
• Bukshish,
• bakhshish,
• bukshisha,
• buckshish.

Plural form of BACKSHISH is BACKSHISHES