gratification
UK: ˌɡrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃən | US: ˌɡrætəfəˈkeɪʃən
n. the state of being gratified; satisfaction or pleasure derived from fulfillment or reward
n. (psychology) the act of satisfying a desire or need, often linked to immediate pleasure
gratification = grat<pleasing> + ific<making> + ation<noun suffix>
- grat (from Latin gratus, meaning "pleasing" or "thankful")
- ific (from Latin -ificus, meaning "making" or "producing")
- ation (noun-forming suffix indicating an action or state)
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin gratificari ("to please or oblige"), combining gratus (pleasing) and -ficare (a variant of facere, "to make"). Over time, it evolved through French gratification (reward) into English, retaining the core idea of "creating pleasure." The morphemes reflect a logical progression: grat (pleasure) + ific (making) = "the act of producing satisfaction."
Delayed gratification is key to long-term success.
The child’s face lit up with gratification after receiving praise.
Social media provides instant gratification through likes and comments.
The project’s completion brought her immense gratification.
Gratification of basic needs is essential for mental well-being.