Definition of gratify
gratified
;gratifying
transitive verb
1 archaic : remunerate, reward
2 : to be a source of or give pleasure or satisfaction to it gratified him to have his wife wear jewels — Willa Cather
Explore M-W
Examples of gratify in a Sentence
A guilty verdict would gratify the victim's relatives.
He's only concerned with gratifying his own desires.
Recent Examples of gratify from the Web
-
And everyone -- all but four -- ignored their constituents in order to gratify the ego of their colleagues.
-
I’ve been gratified to see him so committed over the years to the Philharmonic’s concerts in the parks.
-
The greatest argument on the side of the pro-contraceptive camp is about as weak as their self-gratifying motivation.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'gratify'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Did You Know?
A gratifying experience is quietly pleasing or satisfying. But gratifying an impulse means giving in to it, which isn't always such a good idea, and "instant gratification" of every desire will result in a life based on junk food and worse. Truly gratifying experiences and accomplishments usually are the result of time and effort.
Origin and Etymology of gratify
Middle French gratifier, from Latin gratificari to show kindness to, from gratus + -ificari, passive of -ificare -ify
First Known Use: 1539
Other Business Terms
GRATIFY Defined for English Language Learners
gratify
playDefinition of gratify for English Language Learners
-
: to make (someone) happy or satisfied
-
: to do or give whatever is wanted or demanded by (someone or something)
GRATIFY Defined for Kids
gratify
playDefinition of gratify for Students
gratified
;gratifying
1 : to give pleasure or satisfaction to The loud applause gratified her.
2 : to do or give whatever is wanted by He only wants to gratify his wishes.
Learn More about gratify
-
See words that rhyme with gratify Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for gratify Spanish Central: Translation of gratify Nglish: Translation of gratify for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of gratify for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up gratify? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!