appropriation

noun

ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce appropriation (audio)
Synonyms of appropriationnext
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 adjective

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
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.
Every block grant, procurement cycle and appropriations process is an opportunity to put that north star to work, yet most governments are leaving it on the table. Caroline Whistler, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Steube’s amendment to include in the military appropriations bill was rejected by a 333-to-80 vote of the entire House. Haris Alic, The Washington Examiner, 15 May 2026 Another $10 million in cash or appropriations bonds would support project planning and design for the arena renovation. Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 14 May 2026 According to Bee reporting, between 2019 and 2024, Matsui voted in favor of five different government spending packages mainly via large appropriations bills that included nearly $42 billion for ICE. Robin Epley, Sacbee.com, 14 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for appropriation

Word History

Etymology

see appropriate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of appropriation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Appropriation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/appropriation. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

appropriation

noun
ap·​pro·​pri·​a·​tion ə-ˌprō-prē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce appropriation (audio)
1
: an act or instance of appropriating
2
: a sum of money appropriated for a specific use

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