Appropriate

/əˈproʊ.pri.ət/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To take something for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission.
The artist was accused of appropriating ideas from other cultures.
To allocate or assign a resource for a specific purpose.
The government appropriated funds for disaster relief.
adjective
Suitable or proper in the circumstances.
It is important to wear appropriate clothing for a job interview.
Fitting or relevant to a particular situation.
The teacher chose appropriate materials for the lesson.
Belonging to, or held by, someone in a particular way.
The funds were not appropriate for the project proposed.

Etymology

Middle English: from Latin appropriatus 'made one's own', from the verb appropriāre.

Common Phrases and Expressions

appropriate behavior:
Conduct that is suitable for a given situation.
appropriate action:
An action that is fitting or suitable for a circumstance.
appropriate response:
A reaction that is deemed acceptable in a specific context.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

On point
Her outfit was really on point for the party.
Spot on
Your analysis of the situation was spot on.