perquisite

A perquisite, often shortened to "perk," is not your salary. It is an extra benefit that comes with a job or position. A company car for an executive, free meals for airline staff, or a reserved parking space can all be examples. These extras are not always necessary, but they can make a job more appealing. In older use, the word could also mean something claimed as an extra part of payment, which shows that this idea has been around for a long time.

Imagine you're a medieval knight serving a king. You receive not just payment for your service, but also the right to keep any spoils taken in battle—that's a perquisite! The word "perquisite" comes from the Latin perquisitum, meaning "something acquired," derived from quaerere, "to seek." Originally, it referred to things sought out or claimed beyond one's regular due.

Today, a perquisite is an extra benefit or privilege granted as part of someone's job, position, or status. It is distinct from salary or wages; it is something provided in addition to standard compensation. While often associated with high-powered jobs, such as company cars, travel allowances, or club memberships, perquisites can appear in many kinds of work. They may also come with rank or office, not just with a paycheck.

The context is important: a small perk like free coffee might not seem significant, but a large package of perquisites can significantly increase the overall value of a job offer. Sometimes, excessive or inappropriate perquisites can even raise ethical concerns! So, when you hear about someone enjoying the "perks" of their position, remember it refers to those extra benefits that go beyond the usual paycheck—the little (or not so little) extras that come with the territory.