Gratify: meaning, definitions and examples

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gratify

 

[ ˈɡræt.ɪ.faɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in a positive way

To give pleasure or satisfaction to; to make happy or satisfied. It often involves fulfilling someone's desires or wishes.

Synonyms

indulge, please, satisfy

Examples of usage

  • The delicious meal gratified our taste buds.
  • She felt gratified by the recognition she received for her hard work.
Context #2 | Verb

in a negative way

To indulge someone's desires at the expense of one's own principles or well-being.

Synonyms

cater to, pander, yield to

Examples of usage

  • He gratified his boss's unethical requests to keep his job.
  • She gratified her child's every whim, leading to spoiled behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "gratify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 satisfazer

🇮🇳 संतुष्ट करना

🇩🇪 befriedigen

🇮🇩 memuaskan

🇺🇦 задовольняти

🇵🇱 zadowalać

🇯🇵 満足させる

🇫🇷 satisfaire

🇪🇸 satisfacer

🇹🇷 tatmin etmek

🇰🇷 만족시키다

🇸🇦 إرضاء

🇨🇿 uspokojit

🇸🇰 uspokojiť

🇨🇳 满足

🇸🇮 zadovoljiti

🇮🇸 fullnægja

🇰🇿 қанағаттандыру

🇬🇪 დააკმაყოფილოს

🇦🇿 qane etmək

🇲🇽 satisfacer

Etymology

The word 'gratify' originated from the Latin word 'gratificari', which means 'to please or oblige'. It entered the English language in the 16th century. The concept of gratification has been a fundamental aspect of human psychology, as it relates to the fulfillment of desires and the pursuit of happiness. Throughout history, the idea of gratifying oneself or others has been explored in various philosophical and psychological contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,519, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.