appreciation

noun

ap·​pre·​ci·​a·​tion ə-ˌprē-shē-ˈā-shən 

-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

Synonyms

• admiration
• respect
• regard

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

The outlet reported that Chappelle spoke about the United States’ targeting of Jimmy Kimmel after his comments about Kirk on his show, and that Chappelle expressed his appreciation for being able to make any joke in Saudi Arabia. —Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 3 Oct. 2025

As parents know, this can translate to a boundless appreciation of toys. —Emily Glover, Parents, 2 Oct. 2025

And, while their approaches are very different, one thing that Nuno and Postecoglou have in common is an appreciation of a player with versatile qualities. —Paul Taylor, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025

Readdy was elected Product of the Week on Product Hunt due to tremendous appreciation. —Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see appreciate

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing appreciation

• in appreciation of

Rhymes for appreciation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration