An incentive that helps bring about a desired state. In some contexts, this can imply bribery.
An introductory statement of facts or background information.
The act of placing a port on a vessel's itinerary because the volume of cargo offered at that port justifies the cost of routing the vessel.
Something given or added to added to a deal to sweeten another's attitude, especially a bribe or kickback.
A shill bidder at an auction.
Something added to food to sweeten its taste, especially an artificial substitute for sugar.