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 of appropriation

• subsidy
• grant
• allotment

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

But even if Congress retains this provision, the Pentagon’s framework agreements to boost weapons production likely require lawmakers to approve additional military spending outside of regular appropriations. — Julia Gledhill, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Welch stripped Crespo of his title as chair of the appropriations committee and the staffers that come with that. — Chris Tye, CBS News, 29 July 2026

He is also assigned to a second subcommittee on appropriations related to Health, Mental Health and Social Services. — Alexa Newsom, Kansas City Star, 28 July 2026

Both are high-ranking Democrats on the House and Senate appropriations committees, respectively. — Matthew Daly, Los Angeles Times, 26 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

see appropriate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing appropriation

• cultural appropriation

Rhymes for appropriation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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