Gruntled is a back-formation from the word disgruntled. Originally gruntle was an old word that meant to grumble, however in the 1920’s gruntle(d) was used in a humorous manner to mean “make happy” and thus, a new definition and usage was born! If one is gruntled they are pleased or satisfied as opposed to feeling sulky or dissatisfied, you know disgruntled.
“Hey, if there is a disgruntled why isn’t there a gruntled?” is often used as an argument by those who wish to stump a lexicologist, but now you know that there is such a word!
Gruntled may still be used in a mostly humorous way but I suppose it makes sense since it’s a rather fun and amusing word!
Namaste ~ Ella
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