gratitude

noun

grat·​i·​tude ˈgra-tə-ˌtüd How to pronounce gratitude (audio)
-ˌtyüd
Synonyms of gratitude
: the state of being grateful : thankfulness
expressed gratitude for their support

Examples of gratitude in a Sentence

Let me express my sincere gratitude for all your help. We remember with gratitude those who died defending our country.
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.
During her speech on Sunday, May 17, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Langley, 27, tearfully shared her gratitude for her family, faith, and fellow nominees. Caroline Killilea, PEOPLE, 18 May 2026 But while others are outraged on his behalf, and the audience continues to litigate the show’s end, Colbert remains positive and radiates gratitude. Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 18 May 2026 Speaking immediately before Hegseth, Gallrein expressed his gratitude for the defense secretary and taking the time to campaign on his behalf. Emily Chang, ABC News, 18 May 2026 Also, don’t lecture your teens and don’t expect constant gratitude. Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for gratitude

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French or Medieval Latin; Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gratitudo, from Latin gratus grateful

First Known Use

1565, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gratitude was in 1565

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gratitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratitude. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

gratitude

noun
grat·​i·​tude ˈgrat-ə-ˌt(y)üd How to pronounce gratitude (audio)
: the state of being grateful
Etymology

Middle English gratitude "gratitude," derived from Latin gratitudo (same meaning), from gratus "thankful" — related to congratulate, grace

More from Merriam-Webster on gratitude

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster