Contented Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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contented

[kənˈtɛntɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling satisfied and happy

Feeling contented is a state of peaceful happiness and satisfaction with one's current situation. It is the absence of desire for more or different things. Contentment often comes from appreciating what one has and being grateful for the present moment.

Synonyms

fulfilled, happy, pleased, satisfied.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
contented	used to describe a state of peaceful happiness, often without desire for more She felt contented with her life in the small town. The cat lay contented by the fireplace.
satisfied	used when someone feels their needs or expectations have been met After a big meal, he felt satisfied. She was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.
happy	a general term for feeling joy and pleasure She was happy to see her old friend. He felt happy when he received the good news.
fulfilled	used when someone feels their personal and professional life is meaningful and complete He felt fulfilled after reaching his career goals. Volunteering at the shelter made her feel fulfilled.
pleased	used to describe a feeling of satisfaction, often based on a specific event or action She was pleased with her exam results. He was pleased to receive a promotion.

Examples of usage

I feel contented with my life as it is.
She looked contented as she sat by the fireplace.
The cat purred contentedly in her lap.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to make someone feel contented

To content someone is to bring them a sense of satisfaction and happiness. It involves fulfilling their needs or desires, making them feel content with what they have or what is happening.

Synonyms

fulfill, gratify, please, satisfy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
contented	Similar to 'content,' but sometimes used to describe a more lasting state of satisfaction and happiness. He gave a contented sigh as he finished his book. They lived a contented life in their small village.
satisfy	Used to describe meeting needs, desires, or expectations; can be used in both positive and negative contexts. The meal was satisfying. He was not satisfied with the service.
fulfill	Often used to describe meeting requirements or achieving something desired; implies completion of a task or dream. She fulfilled her dream of becoming a doctor. The project was fulfilled on time and within budget.
please	Used to describe making someone happy or satisfied, often used in everyday conversations and implies effort to meet someone's desires or expectations. He brought flowers to please her. The teacher's praise pleased the students.
gratify	Implies receiving pleasure or satisfaction from something, often used in a slightly formal or polite context. Her praise gratified him greatly. It was gratifying to see so many people enjoying the event.

Examples of usage

The warm meal contented the hungry travelers.
Her kind words contented his troubled mind.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Feeling contented is linked to increased happiness and lower stress levels, as it reflects acceptance of one's circumstances.
Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can enhance feelings of contentment, as it shifts focus from what is lacking to what one has.
Contentment is often associated with mindfulness, which encourages being present and appreciating the current moment.

Philosophy

Many philosophers argue that true happiness comes from contentment rather than the pursuit of external pleasures.
Aristotle emphasized that a life of virtue, where one feels contentment in doing good, leads to true happiness.
In Stoicism, achieving contentment is seen as a way to overcome life's challenges through inner peace.

Literature

In literature, characters that find contentment often embody themes of inner peace and balance, contrasting with those driven by desire or ambition.
Many poets and writers highlight contentment as a state of being where small joys are celebrated, exemplified in works focusing on nature's beauty.
Classic novels often depict the journey from restlessness to contentment as a major character arc, showing personal growth and acceptance.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures have various interpretations of what it means to be content, with some emphasizing communal happiness over individual satisfaction.
In certain Eastern traditions, contentment is a fundamental goal, often linked to spiritual enlightenment and harmony.
Western cultures often associate contentment with material success, whereas indigenous cultures prioritize relationships and community over possessions.

Origin of 'contented'

Main points about word origin

The word 'contented' comes from the Latin 'contentus,' which means 'held together, satisfied.'
It combines 'con' (with) and 'tenere' (to hold), showing a sense of holding happiness within oneself.
The term has been used in English since the 14th century, reflecting a long history of its conceptual importance.

The word 'contented' comes from the Middle English word 'content', which means satisfied. It has roots in the Latin word 'contentus', which also means satisfied. The concept of contentment has been valued throughout history in various cultures, emphasizing the importance of finding happiness and satisfaction in one's current state rather than constantly seeking more.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,467 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9464 remembrance
9465 sup
9466 fission
9467 contented
9468 reminder
9469 filaments
9470 aristocracy
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