Tip3  —v. (-pp-) 1 make a small present of money to, esp. For a service given. 2 name as the likely winner of a race or contest etc. 3 strike or touch lightly. —n. 1 small money present, esp. For a service given. 2 piece of private or special information, esp. Regarding betting or investment. 3 small or casual piece of advice.  tip off give (a person) a hint or piece of special information or warning. Tip a person the wink give a person private information. [origin uncertain]