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

Hilton is a longtime animal lover, with a special appreciation for dogs. —Nicholas Rice, PEOPLE, 23 Nov. 2025

Phenomenal young man, works hard, and just his gratitude and appreciation are what stick out the most about Kejon Owens. —Kevin Barral, Miami Herald, 22 Nov. 2025

Colbert’s appreciation for independent reporting arrives at a complicated time for his own relationship with broadcast television. —Antonio Ferme, Variety, 22 Nov. 2025

Speaking with iHeartRadio Broadway, Butz expressed appreciation for Wicked's lasting impact. —Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Nov. 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