perk Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an incidental benefit awarded for certain types of employment (especially if it is regarded as a right)
    fringe benefit; perquisite.
    • a limousine is one of the fringe benefits of the job
  2. verb gain or regain energy
    pick up; perk up; gain vigor; percolate.
    • I picked up after a nap

WordNet

Perk transitive verb
Etymology
Cf. W. percu to trim, to make smart.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Perked ; present participle & verbal noun Perking
Definitions
  1. To make trim or smart; to straighten up; to erect; to make a jaunty or saucy display of; as, to perk the ears; to perk up one's head. Cowper. Sherburne.
Perk intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To exalt one's self; to bear one's self loftily. "To perk over them." Barrow. Pope.
Perk adjective
Definitions
  1. Smart; trim; spruce; jaunty; vain. "Perk as a peacock." Spenser.
Perk intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To peer; to look inquisitively. Dickens.

Webster 1913