Budget

/ˈbʌdʒɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An estimate of income and expenditure for a set period of time.
The government announced its budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
A plan for the conservation of resources.
She kept a strict budget to save for her vacation.
The amount of money allocated for a particular purpose.
The marketing department has a larger budget this year.
verb
To plan the allocation of resources, especially money.
We need to budget our expenses more effectively.
To allocate funds for a specific purpose.
The charity plans to budget funds for the new community center.

Etymology

From Middle English 'budget', meaning 'a small bag'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

on a budget:
Limited by financial constraints.
budget cuts:
Reduction in the amount of money allocated.
living within one's means:
Spending less than or equal to income.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To make do with limited funds.
We're going to have to budget hard this month.
To prioritize spending.
You need to budget for your purchases.