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.
That same appreciation for craftsmanship extends to her red-carpet ritual. Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 2 Nov. 2025 In the waning days of the pandemic, appreciation and recognition came from Los Angeles city and county officials, who, according to posts on Farzam’s Instagram, commended Farzam for operating Covid testing centers and hailed him as a leader and role model. Ray Sanchez, CNN Money, 2 Nov. 2025 The panel concurred with Kleverov’s persistent appreciation for his story’s human origins, but also his acknowledgment that AI made bringing that story to life achievable. Andrew McGowan, Variety, 31 Oct. 2025 TikTok users were quick to share their admiration for Fern’s newfound appreciation for her treatment. Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 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 3 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on appreciation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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