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 of appreciation

• 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

There’s a clear, deep appreciation of the Irish-Canadian population, and this is The Caribou Trail’s biggest strength. — Matt Gardner, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Danaher's standard price chart presents a picture of modest appreciation over the past decade, underperforming the S & P 500. — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 16 July 2026

Youbi said the brand’s appreciation of great spirits is the heart of its success. — Connie Ogle july 16, Miami Herald, 16 July 2026

With 48 teams participating, the 2026 soccer competition is growing an even wider global audience – alongside appreciation for the diversity of players, their backstories, and expressions of universal human values. — The Monitor’s Editorial Board, Christian Science Monitor, 16 July 2026

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

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation