gratification

noun

grat·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌgra-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: reward, recompense

monetary gratification for a job well done

especially : gratuity

2

: the act of gratifying : the state of being gratified

the gratification of physical appetites

3

: a source of satisfaction or pleasure

found gratification in getting his novel published

Synonyms

• content
• contentedness
• contentment
• delectation
• delight
• enjoyment
• gladness
• happiness
• pleasure
• relish
• satisfaction

Examples of gratification in a Sentence

eating good chocolate gives me a sense of intense gratification

Recent Examples on the Web

Instant gratification is rare in sports, but that is exactly what this new promo offers. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 22 Mar. 2025

The same can be said for skincare, when the desire for instant gratification can sabotage skin health in the interest of an Instagram-worthy before-and-after. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025

And the platform design gets them instant gratification in the form of validation. —Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 28 Feb. 2025

This helps children associate rewards with patience and effort rather than expecting instant gratification. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see gratify

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing gratification

• self-gratification

Rhymes for gratification

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration