self-gratification

[ self-grat-uh-fi-key-shuhn, self- ]

noun

1. the act of pleasing or satisfying oneself, especially the gratifying of one's own impulses, needs, or desires.

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-gratification¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

The vote Wednesday was a monumental exercise in political self-gratification.

From Los Angeles Times

In the end, history mat note it was the compulsive need for self-gratification that ultimately soured the most zealous of the Trump Republicans.

From Salon

Selin understands these categories as the difference between devoting oneself to the societally condoned goals of making money and having kids versus freely pursuing self-gratification through love, art and adventure.

From New York Times

Because there is no license to hurt people as punishment or release or whatever self-gratification you were after.

From Washington Post

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said the move would stop women being "pestered, whether it's for self-gratification or for harassment purposes".

From BBC

Related Words

• squandering