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

Shifting standards for originality Plagiarism can be defined as the appropriation of someone else’s words or ideas without acknowledgment or compensation. — Roger J. Kreuz, The Conversation, 21 Aug. 2026

The allegations include eight counts of grand theft by an employee and another eight for fraudulent appropriation. — Caleb Lunetta, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026

Instead of seeking a direct appropriation from Congress, the administration has secured funding through private donors and federal agencies, according to the Post. — Paloma Chavez, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026

Asking for additional state appropriations in exchange for flat tuition is not a new strategy either in Wisconsin or other states. — Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 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