Appreciation

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /əˌpɹiː.ʃiˈeɪ.ʃən/

Definitions

  1. A feeling of gratitude or recognition of the value, quality, or significance of something or someone
  2. A positive acknowledgment of the worth or importance of someone or something is often accompanied by thankfulness | The act of recognizing and valuing the significance, quality, or contributions of individuals or objects involves feelings of gratitude | The expression of gratitude that highlights the significance, quality, or value of a person or thing can lead to deeper connections and understanding
  3. A sentiment that embodies gratitude and acknowledgment of the significance, worth, or quality of a particular person, object, or concept

Etymology: The noun in question traces its origins to the Latin verb "appretiare," meaning "to value" or "to set a price on." This Latin root itself is formed from the prefix "ad-" (meaning "to" or "toward") combined with "pretium," which means "price" or "value." The sense here revolves around assessing worth, both in a literal and figurative manner. By the late Middle Ages, the term made its way into Old French as "apprecier," carrying the dual senses of estimating the worth of something and holding it in regard. The English language adopted the verb form in the 15th century, initially emphasizing the act of assessing or estimating value, often in financial contexts. The noun form emerged later, around the 17th century, broadening beyond mere monetary evaluation to encompass a more abstract recognition of value or merit. Over time, it came to describe not only the act of valuing possessions but also the recognition and enjoyment of qualities such as beauty, kindness, or achievement. Interestingly, the word’s evolution mirrors a shift from tangible economic appraisal to a more subjective, emotional recognition. This transition highlights how language adapts to express complex human experiences of gratitude, respect, and understanding, moving beyond mere pricing to encompass a fuller sense of esteem.

Synonyms: recognition, gratitude, acknowledgment, valuation, estimation

Antonyms: disregard, indifference, neglect, ungratefulness, scorn