Wordnet 3.0
ADVERB (1)
1.
in an uncalled-for manner;
- Example: "he insulted us gratuitously"
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Gratuitous \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.
[1913 Webster]
We mistake the gratuitous blessings of Heaven for
the fruits of our own industry. --L'Estrange.
[1913 Webster]
2. Not called for by the circumstances; without reason,
cause, or proof; adopted or asserted without any good
ground; as, a gratuitous assumption.
[1913 Webster]
Acts of gratuitous self-humiliation. --De Quincye.
-- Gra*tu"i*tous*ly, adv. -- Gra*tu"i*tous*ness, n.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
gratuitously
adv 1: in an uncalled-for manner; "he insulted us gratuitously"