Gratify

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gratify

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

verb

Pronunciation

GRAT-ih-fy  /ˈɡrætɪfʌɪ/

Definition

To give pleasure or satisfaction to; to indulge or satisfy a desire, need, or whim; (archaic) to reward or recompense.

Plain meaning

To gratify means to give someone real pleasure or satisfaction — to fulfil a desire or need in a way that produces genuine contentment. A gratifying result is one that satisfies more than just the minimum expectation.

Register

Slightly elevated in most uses. Gratify and gratifying are more formal than please and pleasing — I am gratified to hear this is a shade more formal than I am pleased. Gratifying is warm and positive, slightly more elevated than satisfying or pleasing.