satisfactory

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

Synonyms of satisfactory

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

Examples of satisfactory in a Sentence

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

Why not, then, return to 2016 spending amounts which seemed satisfactory at the time? — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026

Harriot quickly found a convenient formula for how many were arranged in a square pyramid based on the number in the bottom row and was able to present Raleigh with a satisfactory solution. — Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 27 Oct. 2026

The Dolphins can defend the ground game at a satisfactory level. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026

An uninterrupted trip Stoliker thinks chaos is not a satisfactory explanation for psychedelics’ effect on the brain. — Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 10 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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