gratitude

American  

[grat-i-tood, -tyood] / ˈgræt ɪˌtud, -ˌtyud /

noun

1. the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful.

   He expressed his gratitude to everyone on the staff.

   Synonyms:

   gratefulness , appreciation , thankfulness , thank

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gratitude British  

/ ˈɡrætɪˌtjuːd /

noun

1. a feeling of thankfulness or appreciation, as for gifts or favours

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Other Word Forms

• overgratitude noun
• ungratitude noun

Etymology

Origin of gratitude

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Medieval Latin grātitūdin-, stem of grātitūdō “thankfulness,” equivalent to grāt(us) “pleasing” + -i- + -tūdō -tude

Compare meaning

How does gratitude compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• gratitude vs. grateful
• gratefulness vs. gratitude

Example Sentences

There was no "support or gratitude," he added, for keeping the service running, during this year's strike action.

From BBC

The Prince was also able to offer his heartfelt gratitude to the NHS teams providing exceptional care during such a profoundly difficult time.

From BBC

In modern times, the holiday is seen as a day to gather with loved ones and express gratitude.

From Barron's

Chesterton took a different tack—gratitude is “the highest form of thought.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Lincoln taught us that in our aspirations for “enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and Union” we must cultivate gratitude for our blessings and the introspection needed for improvement.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• acknowledgment
• obligation
• recognition
• thanks