enjoyment

noun

en·​joy·​ment in-ˈjȯi-mənt 

en-

1

a

: the action or state of enjoying

b

: possession and use

the enjoyment of civic rights

2

: something that gives keen satisfaction

the poorest life has its enjoyments and pleasures

Synonyms

• control
• hands
• keeping
• possession

Examples of enjoyment in a Sentence

She always found sports to be a source of great enjoyment.

I read the book strictly for my own enjoyment.

the enjoyment of good health

This is land set aside for the public's enjoyment.

Recent Examples on the Web

Congressional statutes outlaw conspiracies to intimidate people in the enjoyment of their federal rights. —The Editors, National Review, 13 Dec. 2024

These delicious caps should induce euphoria and relaxation and are also sure to elicit tremendous enjoyment with their 100% Belgian Chocolate formulation and light blueberry flavoring. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 4 Dec. 2024

Many dishes can be made days, even weeks early, without sacrificing taste, texture and enjoyment. —Barry Gordemer, NPR, 25 Nov. 2024

This is a rare case where seeing how the sausage is made actually enhances my enjoyment (of crossword puzzles)! —Sam Corbin, New York Times, 24 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1553, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

enjoyment

noun

en·​joy·​ment in-ˈjȯi-mənt 

1

: the condition of enjoying something : possession and use of something that gives satisfaction

the enjoyment of good health

2

: satisfaction taken in something

find enjoyment in skating

3

: something that gives pleasure

the poorest life has its enjoyments

Legal Definition

enjoyment

noun

en·​joy·​ment

: personal benefit, use, or possession (as of rights or property)

widows and widowers were relegated to lifetime enjoyment of the marital estates

—W. M. McGovern, Jr. et al.

specifically : the receipt of the fruits or profits of property see also right of use, usufruct