satisfactory

1 of 2

adjective

sat·​is·​fac·​to·​ry ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rē 

: giving satisfaction : adequate

a satisfactory performance

satisfactorily

ˌsa-təs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rə-lē 

adverb

satisfactoriness noun

satisfactoriness

2 of 2

noun

sat·​is·​fac·​to·​ri·​ness

-rēnə̇s, 

-rin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being satisfactory

Synonyms of satisfactory

Adjective

• fine
• OK
• alright
• good
• acceptable
• agreeable

Examples of satisfactory in a Sentence

Adjective

The job requires a satisfactory level of performance.

Results are less satisfactory than had been anticipated.

He gave a satisfactory account of how the accident had happened.

The movie was brought to a satisfactory close.

His work has been satisfactory, but not outstanding.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

There may never be a satisfactory explanation for the WNBA’s insistence on abandoning such a loyal, durable fanbase, but the fans didn’t come to Mohegan Sun Arena one last time to ask why. — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 25 Sep. 2026

This is not a satisfactory outcome for anyone — not people experiencing homelessness, the surrounding community or the institutions serving vulnerable Chicagoans. — Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

The bonus would be paid over two years, contingent on satisfactory evaluations. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Not ready for prime time The video-generation technology rarely gets the content right on its first try, Sun said, adding that her team takes at least 10 attempts to create a satisfactory 15-second clip. — Ling Wei, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1576, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

satisfactory

adjective

sat·​is·​fac·​to·​ry ˌsat-əs-ˈfak-t(ə-)rē 

: giving satisfaction

satisfactorily

-t(ə-)rə-lē 

adverb

satisfactoriness

-t(ə-)rē-nəs

noun