gratification

noun

grat·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌgra-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce gratification (audio)
Synonyms of gratification
1
: reward, recompense
monetary gratification for a job well done
especially : gratuity
2
: the act of gratifying : the state of being gratified
the gratification of physical appetites
3
: a source of satisfaction or pleasure
found gratification in getting his novel published

Examples of gratification in a Sentence

eating good chocolate gives me a sense of intense gratification
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most fans of baseball, delayed gratification and compounding interest know about Bobby Bonilla Day, an annual acknowledgment of the dawn of deferred contracts. Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026 In the end, delaying gratification by using music as a reward is likely more effective than using it automatically. Bridget K. Daleiden, The Conversation, 29 June 2026 Apple users tend to be deeply fond of Apple products; iPhones and iMacs have the advantage over most AI technologies of providing immediate gratification. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026 Can that gratification be found in supporting and maintaining an edifice that has been erected by others? Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for gratification

Word History

Etymology

see gratify

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gratification was in 1576

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Cite this Entry

“Gratification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratification. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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