glad

To be glad is to feel happy, pleased, or relieved because of something. You might feel this way when you see a friend after a long time, when you pass a test, or when the rain stops before you go outside. The word is often used for a clear reason, not just for a general mood. It can also show relief, especially when something bad did not happen. People often use it in kind, everyday speech too, as in "I'm glad to help" or "I'm glad you came."

"Glad" describes a feeling of happiness, pleasure, or relief connected to something specific. It is a common word people use when things go well, when good news arrives, or when a problem is avoided. For example: "She was glad to hear she got the job," or "He was glad he brought an umbrella."

While it is often close in meaning to "happy," "glad" usually sounds more immediate and more tied to a particular event or situation. You might be generally happy with your life, but you are glad when your favorite team wins a game.

"Glad" also often carries a sense of relief. If someone escapes a dangerous situation, they would likely feel glad to be safe. It can also express politeness and warmth in social settings: "I'm glad you could make it!" is a common welcoming phrase.

The word comes from Old English, where it once had meanings connected to brightness or shining. Today, it is a simple everyday word, but it captures an important part of human experience: feeling good about a result, a moment, or a piece of news. So when something turns out well and your heart feels lighter, that is when you feel glad.