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.
McNeeley intends on performing wherever Lee places him on the court, tapping into his gritty demeanor, and nodded in virtual appreciation when Lee’s words were relayed to him. Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 13 Oct. 2025 The wait and the anticipation will also grow your appreciation for the spectacular blooms. Chris McKeown, Cincinnati Enquirer, 11 Oct. 2025 The day should not go by without one more remembrance and appreciation of Diane Keaton. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 11 Oct. 2025 For the actress, who has carved out her own corner in sci-fi with the help of Alien, joining the cast was about the strength of the story and not necessarily because of her genre appreciation. Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 10 Oct. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appreciation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appreciation. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

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