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

Known for her ability to balance humor with genuine appreciation for the entertainment industry, Glaser promises to deliver another ceremony that’s both entertaining and celebratory of the year’s best achievements in film and television. —Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 11 Jan. 2026

After Paramount‘s first week back in the office, CEO David Ellison expressed appreciation to his employees for coming in. —Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 10 Jan. 2026

While minimalism marches out the door, in comes a new appreciation for a bit of quirk, says Lognion. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026

The backstory Founded by contemporary art collectors and preservationists Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson, the hotel was born as part of a revitalization of the area, as well as to foster a deeper appreciation of contemporary art. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 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