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

Looking at some of the young people supported by The Damilola Taylor Trust over more than two decades — determined, ambitious and hopeful — it is clear that this wish is being fulfilled.

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The prime minister argues that funding should be "focused on fulfilling state tasks".

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Both players have taken a similar path over the past few years, rising from the Championship to fulfilling their potential at Crystal Palace.

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Ms Javadli and David Haigh say that Dubai portrays itself as promoting women's rights and encouraging women - whether from the UAE or from outside - to lead fulfilling lives, both professionally and personally.

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It offers activities and workshops that help them build the foundations for a fulfilling life.

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