appreciation

noun

ap·​pre·​ci·​a·​tion ə-ˌprē-shē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce appreciation (audio)
-ˌpri-,
 also  -ˌprē-sē-
Synonyms of appreciationnext
1
a
: a feeling or expression of admiration, approval, or gratitude
I want to express my appreciation for all you've done.
a small token of our appreciation
b
: judgment, evaluation
especially : a favorable critical estimate
c
: sensitive awareness
especially : recognition of aesthetic values
a class in music appreciation
2
: increase in value

Synonyms

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of appreciation in a Sentence

You've been so generous, and I'd like to show my appreciation by cooking a meal for you. She's shown little appreciation for the effort you've made. I'm not sure you have an appreciation of the complexity of the situation. I've gained an appreciation for the skills involved in the game.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Only 3 miles from Main Street in downtown Breckenridge there is a trailhead that leads not only to backcountry joy, but a greater appreciation for the town’s 19th-century mining history. — John Meyer, The Denver Post, 13 Mar. 2025 This not only fosters appreciation for the cuisine but also sparks curiosity about the traditions, struggles and resilience of the people behind it. — Liza B. Zimmerman, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 Before the media, Vance spoke about his own appreciation for the country and the important alliance between the two nations. — Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 12 Mar. 2025 But this appreciation was often tinged with condescension. — Susan Tallman, The Atlantic, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for appreciation

Word History

Etymology

see appreciate

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of appreciation was in 1605

Phrases Containing appreciation

Rhymes for appreciation

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Browse Nearby Words

appreciated surplus
appreciation
appreciative
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appreciation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appreciation. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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