appropriation

noun

ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of appropriating something

2

: something that has been appropriated

specifically : money set aside by formal action for a specific use

the city's appropriation for schools

appropriative

ə-ˈprō-prē-ˌā-tiv 

adjective

Synonyms

• allocation
• allotment
• annuity
• entitlement
• grant
• subsidy
• subvention

Examples of appropriation in a Sentence

the appropriation of funds to repair the bridge

The economy has been weakened by the appropriation of the country's resources by corrupt officials.

Recent Examples on the Web

Read why the drink has raised cultural appropriation questions. —Alexandra Banner, CNN, 14 Oct. 2024

The accusations of cultural appropriation directed her way are not truly strident, though. —Doreen St. Félix, The New Yorker, 19 Oct. 2024

Liu also posted a video on TikTok on Oct. 12 reemphasizing his points of cultural appropriation and reiterating the importance of being kind to the Bobba founders. —Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 17 Oct. 2024

People still loved it, in spite of its problems, which historically have ranged from cultural appropriation to lack of size diversity. —Ana Colon, refinery29.com, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see appropriate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

appropriation

noun

ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of appropriating

2

: a sum of money appropriated for a specific use