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

Students can choose to accept final grades based on their coursework up until this week or retroactively change their grades to a satisfactory/no credit mark. —Sophie Comeau, NBC news, 15 Dec. 2025

Stress can also make the holidays feel less satisfactory. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 12 Dec. 2025

In addition, the hospital had to demonstrate high-quality care by achieving satisfactory rates of unexpected newborn complications, C-sections, and episiotomies. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 9 Dec. 2025

The precautionary advisory that is currently in effect will be lifted once satisfactory test results are obtained, according to officials. —Steven Yablonski, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

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