1
as in joy
a source of great satisfaction
tourists enjoying the delectations of this tropical paradise for the first time
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in enjoyment
the feeling experienced when one's wishes are met
a musical concert was presented for the delectation of the guests
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of delectation
In their country homes, the canvases are mere backdrops to a lifeworld, among many collections of animal likenesses that are never primarily presented as sources of visual delectation.
—
Tom McDonough, Artforum, 1 Nov. 2025
The result is a Pynchonian reduction simmered to delectation.
—Jack Denton, Vulture, 6 Oct. 2025
Beatmakers and sound design whizzes were summoned at ungodly hours to conjure nightmares of party music for their employer’s curatorial delectation.
—Pitchfork, 30 Sep. 2025
More than fifty years ago, any semi-sentient being could recognize the dangers of forcing minors to work gruelling hours performing emotions for the delectation of large and unseen audiences, long before their brains had finished developing.
—Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 10 Apr. 2025
Shelly still loves the glitz (as does the film’s director, Gia Coppola, who lingers on it all with real delectation), reminiscing about her glory days in cabaret.
—Rhonda Garelick, New York Times, 19 Jan. 2025
Magnificent, with a thundering equine climax for adult delectation.
—Armond White, National Review, 28 June 2023
In fact, Saul is a performance artist, and what is performed upon him, for the delectation of a jaded audience, is surgery.
—The New Yorker, 3 June 2022
Recent Examples of Synonyms for delectation
Noun
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Thus, Edward’s choice of ring sweetly honors the couple’s half-decade of dating before getting engaged, the joy of their betrothal, and their hope for their future together.—
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Though Sadie hasn’t made a basket yet, Whittington says her daughter’s joy and encouragement are far more meaningful than any points on the scoreboard.—
Noun
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Half the enjoyment of these toys is being able to carefully break open the egg to reveal the surprise creature inside.—
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The themes of poverty, greed and love, that’s the part that the viewers are putting into their enjoyment of the movie.—
Noun
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Japan draws thirtysomethings with its diverse attractions, from culinary delights to swift transportation, catering to travelers' varied interests.—
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Taco Bell's menu is ever-changing, bringing back fan favorites while creating new culinary delights for customers to love.—
Noun
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Psychologically, blue is associated with tranquility and contentment, but its variety of shades bring different feelings to the table.—
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Expressing our aspiration for a future free from excess, Cloud Dancer evolves our desire for contentment and feelings of peace, unity, and cohesiveness.—
Noun
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Some tribes in the region that traditionally hold First Salmon feasts to welcome the arrival of spring salmon from the ocean have waited for their catch in vain, forcing them to ask other tribes to donate a fish, Gobin said.—
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We were used to lives of feast or famine.—
Noun
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In Sonnenfeld’s telling, the president’s recent moves substitute executive discretion for market outcomes, leaving managers and shareholders operating not within a free market, but at the pleasure of the White House.—
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Would Cora grow more open to life’s imperfect joys, its corny pleasures?—
Noun
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Thick-cut bacon, Panko breadcrumbs, and a touch of sherry vinegar transform Brussels sprouts into a salty and crunchy treat.—
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These cookies are our take on the famous Levain Bakery treats from New York City.—
Noun
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Both provide me satisfaction in my retirement.—
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Protein powders always felt overhyped — a product category with more marketing than satisfaction.—
Cite this Entry
“Delectation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/delectation. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
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