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

Remember, appreciation encourages consistency. —Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 Feb. 2026

This approach allows the fragrance to feel both familiar and fresh, creating a sense of ease while encouraging closer appreciation of its layered structure. —Maria Williams, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026

Japan is an island nation where people feel the changing of the seasons and find beauty in wabi-sabi, the appreciation of impermanence and imperfection. —Charlie Vargas, Daily News, 6 Feb. 2026

And Strong approaches each day with a new outlook and a total appreciation for a second chance. —Steve Millar, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 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

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration