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 once similar requirements appear in state statutes, appropriations bills or governing-board directives, the institution no longer controls the terms. — David Rosowsky, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Commissioners levy taxes, make appropriations, adopt budges and make appointments to certain offices, boards and commissions. — Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026

If Springfield does not approve a supplemental appropriation — or if the money does not arrive in time — the layoffs avoided today may return in the middle of the school year. — Angel Gutierrez, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026

Granger listed national defense as a top funding priority after being named appropriations chair, and Fort Worth is home to Bell and Lockheed Martin, both federal contractors. — Star-Telegram Staff. Produced With Ai Assistance, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 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