1
as in enjoyable
giving pleasure or contentment to the mind or senses
a spectacular film that is gratifying to both the mind and the eyes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in comforting
making one feel good inside
your warm welcome sure is gratifying to this tired soul
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in pleasing
to give in to (a desire)
just gratify this one whim of mine
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in satisfying
to give satisfaction to
your presence at the holiday table would really gratify your grandmother
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of gratifying
Theoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 6 Apr. 2026
But the wave of palpable surprise that rippled through the crowd as the stage lighting turned purple made the occasion of the E Street Band covering a Prince song even more gratifying.
—Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026
What began as a way to embellish college entrance applications has become a gratifying life experience for the teens as well as the elementary school students.
—Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratifying
Adjective
The album the 48-year-old country-music star put out last May leans hard into mood, scale and theatricality — strings, horns, choirs, the whole shebang — built around the idea of pushing back against a culture that wants everything fast, familiar and instantly gratifying.
—Theoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 6 Apr. 2026
But the wave of palpable surprise that rippled through the crowd as the stage lighting turned purple made the occasion of the E Street Band covering a Prince song even more gratifying.
—Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
Verb
The shift in women's sports is both gratifying and bittersweet for players and coaches from the pioneering schools that helped spark this current growth.
—ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026
What began as a way to embellish college entrance applications has become a gratifying life experience for the teens as well as the elementary school students.
—Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for gratifying
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gratifying
Adjective
-
The first two days of the game were really enjoyable, Williams said.—
Rebecca Johnson,
Chicago Tribune,
2 May 2026
-
In a statement provided to The Star, a representative for the Country Club Plaza said the organization was focused on providing a safe and enjoyable experience in the area, particularly for the World Cup festivities this summer.—
Dylan Lysen
May 1,
Kansas City Star,
1 May 2026
Adjective
-
For Chamberlain, paintings—and paint itself—are nostalgic and comforting.—
Anna Grace Lee,
Vogue,
4 May 2026
-
The food was exactly the same—the menu is a fresh and creative take on regional flavors, yet still approachable and comforting.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
3 May 2026
Verb
-
His smarts and willingness to do the dirty work are coach-pleasing qualities.—
Matt Barrows,
New York Times,
25 Apr. 2026
-
Lululemon's choice of Heidi O'Neill as CEO isn't pleasing everyone.—
Emma Hinchliffe,
Fortune,
24 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The project began coalescing last year, after the two had completed the arduous but clearly satisfying production on Apex.—
Borys Kit,
HollywoodReporter,
7 May 2026
-
The NeeDoh Nice Cube is cube-shaped with sharp corners that are satisfying to squeeze from all sides.—
Samantha Agate,
Sacbee.com,
6 May 2026
Adjective
-
The day Chunhyang and Mongryong met each other for the first time was exceptionally pleasant.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
1 May 2026
-
The fruit is sweet with pleasant, slightly tangy undertones.—
Nadia Hassani,
The Spruce,
1 May 2026
Adjective
-
The Rockies, back home after an encouraging 4-2 road trip, were in control of the game early behind another strong start from veteran left-hander Jose Quintana and another big night from Mickey Moniak, who extended his hitting streak to 15 games.—
Patrick Saunders,
Denver Post,
2 May 2026
-
Kenyon told me that although the mice research is encouraging, a drug pathway that successfully extends a dog’s life will generate more enthusiasm among scientists who hope to try similar treatments on humans.—
Ross Andersen,
The Atlantic,
2 May 2026
Verb
-
After decades of delighting fans with her brilliant performances in comedies like Private Benjamin, Overboard and The First Wives Club, Hawn is turning to a different medium to spread the power of positivity.—
Eric Andersson,
PEOPLE,
28 Apr. 2026
-
The rise of Bernie Sanders’ preferred Senate candidate in Michigan is frustrating moderates, delighting progressives, and testing the sway of Democratic leaders in a race that will likely determine the party’s shot at a Senate majority.—
Burgess Everett,
semafor.com,
22 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
When in bloom, the tree is adorned with fragrant white flowers that can fill a patio with their delightful scent.—
SJ McShane,
Martha Stewart,
3 May 2026
-
This is a delightful day to enjoy everyone’s company.—
Georgia Nicols,
Denver Post,
2 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Gratifying.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gratifying. Accessed 8 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
