gratitude
GRAT-ih-tood
/ˈɡrætɪtjuːd/
The state of being thankful; appreciation for benefits received.
Gratitude is an active, warm emotion that involves recognizing the value of what has been given and acknowledging the kindness of the giver.
The story behind the word. The Latin root 'gratus' has given English a beautiful family of words. It is the source of 'grace' (being pleasing), 'congratulate' (to share in joy), and 'gratuity' (a tip given for good service). 'Gratitude' emerged in the late Middle Ages as the word for the warm, pleasing feeling of thankfulness.
Word relationships
- thankfulness: 'Thankfulness' is the immediate feeling of being glad for something, while 'gratitude' is often a deeper, more lasting state of appreciation.
- appreciation: 'Appreciation' can refer to recognizing the value of anything (like art or stock), while 'gratitude' is strictly interpersonal thankfulness.
- ingratitude: 'Ingratitude' is a lack of proper appreciation for help or gifts received.
- resentment: 'Resentment' is a feeling of deep anger or bitterness, the opposite of warm appreciation.
Commonly confused with
- obligation: 'Obligation' is a duty or requirement to act, whereas 'gratitude' is a voluntary, positive emotion.
Word family
- grateful (adjective): Feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness.
- gratefully (adverb): In a thankful manner.
Collocations
- express gratitude
- deep gratitude
- show gratitude
- debt of gratitude
Example sentences
- "He expressed his deep gratitude to the doctors who saved his life." Expressing appreciation to medical staff.
Memory hook
Gratitude sounds like 'great attitude'. Having a great attitude makes you feel thankful. Gratitude is a great attitude.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'indebtedness', which implies a cold, transactional obligation to pay someone back.
Fun facts
- Psychological studies show that practicing gratitude daily can physically alter brain chemistry, increasing overall happiness and reducing stress.
Related words
Explore more words
gracious, tribute, delighted, affectionate, tenderness, beneficence
Also appears in
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.