appropriation

noun

ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of appropriating something

2

: something that has been appropriated

specifically : money set aside by formal action for a specific use

the city's appropriation for schools

appropriative

ə-ˈprō-prē-ˌā-tiv 

adjective

Synonyms

• allocation
• allotment
• annuity
• entitlement
• grant
• subsidy
• subvention

Examples of appropriation in a Sentence

the appropriation of funds to repair the bridge

The economy has been weakened by the appropriation of the country's resources by corrupt officials.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, many present-day critics classify her adventures and recordings as cultural appropriation. —Emily Zarevich, JSTOR Daily, 26 Apr. 2025

Spending more and inking multiyear appropriations can help overcome these challenges. —Michael Brown, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025

At public appropriations hearings in Pinal County about the Massive Blue contract, the sheriff’s office refused to tell county council members about what the product even is. —Emanuel Maiberg, Wired News, 17 Apr. 2025

The appropriations committees can then respond, ask questions, and challenge the changes accordingly. —Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 16 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

see appropriate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for appropriation

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

Kids Definition

appropriation

noun

ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of appropriating

2

: a sum of money appropriated for a specific use