Pittance (through Old French pitance and from Latin pietas, loving-kindness) is a gift to the members of a religious house for masses, consisting usually of an extra allowance of food or wine on occasions such as the anniversary of the donor's death, festivals, or other similar occasions.
A small gift (through Old French pitance and from Latin pietas, loving-kindness) given to members of a religious house for masses, usually consisting of an extra portion of food or wine on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or other celebrations.