fulfill

• (UK) fulfil

From Middle English fulfillen, from Old English fullfyllan (“to fill full”), corresponding to full- +‎ fill.

• IPA^(key): /fʊlˈfɪl/, IPA^(key): /fəˈfɪl/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Rhymes: -ɪl

fulfill (third-person singular simple present fulfills, present participle fulfilling, simple past and past participle fulfilled)

1. To satisfy, carry out, bring to completion (an obligation, a requirement, etc.).

   You made a promise, son, and now you must fulfill it.

2. To emotionally or artistically satisfy; to develop one's gifts to the fullest.

   This is the most fulfilling work I've ever done.

3. To obey, follow, comply with (a rule, requirement etc.).

   Unfortunately, you don't fulfill the criteria for extra grants at the present time.

4. (archaic) To fill full; fill to the utmost capacity; fill up.

   My lady is positively fulfilled of grace.

   • 1870, James Thomson, The City of Dreadful Night

     The silence which benumbs or strains the sense

     Fulfils with awe the soul's despair unweeping

• fulfilled
• fulfilling
• fulfillable
• (chiefly US) fulfillment; (UK) fulfilment
• unfulfilled