Makes someone feel pleased or satisfied, especially by giving them what they want or doing something they enjoy.
From Latin 'gratificari' (to do a favor), combining 'gratus' (pleasing) and 'facere' (to do). The meaning has remained consistent since the 1600s, referring to the act of pleasing or satisfying someone.
The word literally breaks down to 'to make pleasing,' but it carries a subtle implication of power—you gratify someone, meaning you have the ability to deliver what pleases them. This is why it's often used in contexts of authority or control.
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