self-gratification

noun

self-grat·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌself-ˌgra-tə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce self-gratification (audio)
: the act of pleasing oneself or of satisfying one's desires
especially : the satisfying of one's own sexual urges

Examples of self-gratification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to the warrant affidavit, the man then took his phone out of his pocket, pulled his pants down and began engaging in self-gratification. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 4 Mar. 2025 Sure, there’s one last bit of Taylor Sheridan self-gratification in the first ten minutes, as everyone gathers around and laughs heartily at one last wacky story from Travis. — Vulture Editors, Vulture, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-gratification was in 1663

Rhymes for self-gratification

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Browse Nearby Words

self-government
self-gratification
self-gratulation
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Cite this Entry

“Self-gratification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-gratification. Accessed 11 Apr. 2025.

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