subsidy

noun

sub·​si·​dy ˈsəb-sə-dē 

-zə-

plural subsidies

: a grant or gift of money: such as

a

: a sum of money formerly granted by the British Parliament to the crown and raised by special taxation

b

: money granted by one state to another

c

: a grant by a government to a private person or company to assist an enterprise deemed advantageous to the public

Synonyms

• allocation
• allotment
• annuity
• appropriation
• entitlement
• grant
• subvention

Examples of subsidy in a Sentence

The city is increasing subsidies for public transit.

government subsidies for farmers in case of crop failure

Recent Examples on the Web

Going forward, supporting the private sector, especially technology, and asset prices, especially real estate, in addition to consumer subsidies, are needed to achieve these goals. —Brendan Ahern, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025

Wilkinson offered deep skepticism, telling me that such a project would face difficult economics and likely require government subsidy. —Justin Worland/houston, TIME, 14 Mar. 2025

County commissioners last year approved a $10.5 million subsidy for World Cup in 2025 as organizers prepare for the 2026 games. —Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 13 Mar. 2025

The loss was partially offset by $1.1 million in government subsidies received during the year. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English subsidie, from Anglo-French, from Latin subsidium reserve troops, support, assistance, from sub- near + sedēre to sit — more at sub-, sit

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing subsidy

• anti-subsidy

Kids Definition

subsidy

noun

sub·​si·​dy ˈsəb-səd-ē 

-zəd-

plural subsidies

: a grant or gift especially of money

especially : a grant by a government to a private person or company or to another government to assist an undertaking thought helpful to the public