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

Despite reducing that stake, her net worth has still increased due to market appreciation. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 22 Aug. 2026

Newcastle’s opposition, Liverpool, will join the vociferous appreciation and the towering noise will match the stands Keegan built. — Michael Walker, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026

Fragrances play a vital role in both everyday life and special occasions, reflecting the region’s appreciation for sensory beauty and its long-standing influence on the global fragrance industry. — Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 21 Aug. 2026

From production design and cinematography to the evolution of genre conventions, her work often reflects a deep appreciation for the early half of last century — and an uncanny ability to trace its fingerprints across the movies being made today. — Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 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