contentment

noun

con·​tent·​ment kən-ˈtent-mənt How to pronounce contentment (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being contented
There was a look of contentment on her face.
2
: something that contents
… states that allow their muscles to spoil them and their contentments to enfeeble them.The New Republic

Examples of contentment in a Sentence

He believes that people can find peace and contentment in living simply. There was a look of perfect contentment on her face.
Recent Examples on the Web In the case of Denmark, this contentment is often attributed to the hygge lifestyle. Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 3 July 2024 This type of work-life balance is proven to increase productivity in the workplace and also creates a broader sense of contentment in all areas of life. Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 24 June 2024 As contentment spreads, the powerful become affected not directly by the virus, but its impact on their wallets. Bailey Richards, Peoplemag, 17 June 2024 Meanwhile, Francesca, so mollified in her connection with Lord John Stirling, the Earl of Kilmartin (Victor Alli), realizes contentment is no match for intense and longing chemistry. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for contentment 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'contentment.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English contentement "satisfaction of a claim or debt," borrowed from Anglo-French, from contenter "to satisfy, content entry 3" + -ment -ment

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of contentment was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near contentment

Cite this Entry

“Contentment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contentment. Accessed 14 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

contentment

noun
con·​tent·​ment kən-ˈtent-mənt How to pronounce contentment (audio)
: freedom from worry or restlessness : peaceful satisfaction

More from Merriam-Webster on contentment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!