Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

debt-of-gratitude

noun

/dɛbt əv ˈɡrætɪtjuːd/

Definition

A moral obligation to show appreciation for a favor or kindness received.

Examples

After receiving help during a tough time, she felt a deep debt of gratitude toward her friends.
His debt of gratitude was evident when he dedicated his award to those who had supported him.

Meaning

The term refers to the sense of responsibility one feels to reciprocate acts of kindness or support that have been afforded to them. It’s the acknowledgment of the help one has received from others and the desire to repay that support in some form.