appreciation

noun

ap·​pre·​ci·​a·​tion ə-ˌprē-shē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce appreciation (audio)
-ˌpri-,
 also  -ˌprē-sē-
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

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.
On February 14, the Adams County SPCA based in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, shared a heartfelt statement on Facebook, expressing their deep appreciation for the community's incredible generosity. Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 17 Feb. 2025 Another cast member like Hartman or Bill Hader who provided a reliably hilarious center to countless sketches, Maya Rudolph has found a second wind of appreciation in the 2020s with her Emmy-winning stint as Vice President Kamala Harris. Dennis Perkins, EW.com, 16 Feb. 2025 From museums and famous artwork to cozy restaurants and incredible nature, you’re bound to leave with a newfound appreciation for this city and the people who call it home. Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2025 Fire Chief Michael Swanson and the fire team expressed their appreciation to the young students for their kindness, dedication and generous donations that helped make the food drive a success. Orlando Sentinel Staff, Orlando Sentinel, 13 Feb. 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

Dictionary Entries Near appreciation

Cite this Entry

“Appreciation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appreciation. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appreciation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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