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

• account
• admiration
• esteem
• estimation
• favor
• regard
• respect

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

Still, though, worthy of appreciation in the eyes of someone for whom the softness of an aging body can look a lot like love. —Valerie Monroe, Allure, 23 May 2025

She’s been a front row guest at Balenciaga, Chloé and Rabanne during Paris Fashion Week, and her appreciation of fashion is growing. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 23 May 2025

Gordon noted an appreciation for the architecture of the building, including nods to the elevated tracks and trains that previously ran through the area. —Aman Kidwai, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025

One of the best ways to reach others, Carnegie wrote, was to offer sincere appreciation. —Rustin Dodd, New York Times, 22 May 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