appreciation

noun

ap·​pre·​ci·​a·​tion ə-ˌprē-shē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce appreciation (audio)
-ˌpri-
also -ˌprē-sē-
Synonyms of appreciation
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

Relevance
See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And if things go as planned, Crosby will be joined by a whole city in his appreciation for Murashov. — Josh Yohe, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026 There was no embarrassment by their presence near his teammates and friends, just an appreciation for those who love and support him. — Caleb Otte, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026 Poetry and beauty color their appreciation of the wine’s complex balance, its bright fruit notes, vibrant acidity and earthy mineral undertones. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2026 Dampier wanted to make sure his coach felt the appreciation and support the team has in him. — ABC News, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for appreciation

Word History

Etymology

see appreciate

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of appreciation was in 1605

Phrases Containing appreciation

Rhymes for appreciation

See All Rhymes for appreciation

Browse Nearby Words

appreciated surplus
appreciation
appreciative
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appreciation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appreciation. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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