fulfill

especially British, ful·fil

[fool-fil]

verb (used with object)

fulfilled, fulfilling 

1. to carry out, or bring to realization, as a prophecy or promise.

   Synonyms: realize, complete, achieve, accomplish

2. to perform or do, as duty; obey or follow, as commands.

   Synonyms: observe, discharge, execute

3. to satisfy (requirements, obligations, etc.).

   a book that fulfills a long-felt need.

   Synonyms: fill, answer, meet

4. to bring to an end; finish or complete, as a period of time.

   He felt that life was over when one had fulfilled his threescore years and ten.

   Synonyms: conclude, terminate, end

5. to develop the full potential of (usually used reflexively).

   She realized that she could never fulfill herself in such work.

Other Word Forms

• fulfiller noun
• overfulfill verb (used with object)
• prefulfill verb (used with object)
• superfulfill verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of fulfill¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English fulfillen, Old English fulfyllan. See full ¹, fill

Example Sentences

She is now ever closer to fulfilling her Iron Lady ambition.

From BBC

Members of a local association representing artisanal fishermen in Saint-Louis say BP has not fulfilled its promise to create artificial reefs where they could catch more fish.

From BBC

There are so many practical, safer choices that can result in a happy, fulfilling career.

From Los Angeles Times

“Americans made their voices heard last November; Democrats must respect the will of the people. ... EPA will work to fulfill our statutory obligations, emergency response efforts, and Administration priorities.”

From Los Angeles Times

Yet although Netanyahu said the plan fulfilled “our war aims,” he did not leave the White House on Monday completely pleased.

From Los Angeles Times