ENGLISH
REFERENCE

satisfaction

n.
US //ˌsætəsˈfækʃən// UK //sˌætɪsfˈækʃən// sat·is·fac·tion
  1. 1 feeling of contentment (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the happy or proud feeling you have when you do something well or get what you need.

    the emotional state of pleasure or contentment arising from the fulfilment of a need, desire, or expectation.

    Example

    She felt a great sense of satisfaction after finishing the marathon.

    Example

    The team derived immense satisfaction from seeing their long-term project finally reach the implementation phase without any major setbacks.

  2. 2 fulfilling a requirement (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    the act of meeting a need, a rule, or a demand.

    the act of fulfilling a requirement, obligation, or condition to an acceptable standard.

    Example

    The company is working toward the satisfaction of all safety regulations.

    Example

    The legal team confirmed that the satisfaction of all contractual conditions had been met before the final payment was released.

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  1. 3 repaying a wrong (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Law

    something done to make up for a mistake or an injury.

    reparation or compensation for an injury, loss, or perceived insult to one's honour.

    Example

    He demanded satisfaction after his reputation was damaged by the false report.

    Example

    In historical contexts, a duel was often seen as the only way for a gentleman to receive satisfaction for a public insult.

    Usage

    Often used in the phrase 'to demand satisfaction'.

Origin

From Middle English satisfaccioun, from Old French satisfaccion and Latin satisfactiō, satisfactiōnis.

Word family

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