thankful

adjective

thank·​ful ˈthaŋk-fəl 

1

: conscious of benefit received

for what we are about to receive make us truly thankful

2

: expressive of thanks

thankful service

3

: well pleased : glad

was thankful that it didn't rain

thankfulness noun

Synonyms

• glad
• pleased
• delighted
• happy
• satisfied

Examples of thankful in a Sentence

Everyone was thankful to hear the good news.

we were thankful that someone else was footing the bill for the lavish wedding banquet

Recent Examples on the Web

During his postgame news conference, Napier had a thankful message for the crowd, thanking them for making a positive impact on his players on the field. —Jordan Sigler, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Oct. 2025

The idea is that Arj will see how superficial and shallow the good life really is, and be far more thankful for his own meager existence. —David Fear, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025

We are blessed in love and life and are so very thankful for our families coming together. —Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025

Fischer Homes is deeply thankful to all the generous trade partners and sponsors who helped make this home a reality; their contributions brought beauty and quality to every corner. —Lennie Omalza, Louisville Courier Journal, 25 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing thankful

• grateful/thankful for small mercies

Kids Definition

thankful

adjective

thank·​ful ˈthaŋk-fəl 

: feeling or showing thanks

thankfully

-fə-lē

adverb

thankfulness noun