Earmarked Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈɝrmɑːrkɪd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A specific resources that has been allocated or set aside for a particular purpose or use, typically in a budget or financial plan.

Examples

• The government earmarked funds for education and infrastructure development.
• She earmarked a portion of her salary for retirement savings.

Synonyms

• Provided
• Designated

Antonyms

• Unallocated
• Unused

Etymology

The word “Earmarked” originated in the 17th century from the Old English words “ear” meaning “ear” and “mark” meaning “to mark or designate”. It refers to the act of setting aside or allocating something, typically for a specific purpose.

Usage Notes

Earmarked is often used in a financial or budgetary context to describe the allocation of funds or resources for a specific purpose. It can also be used more broadly to describe the setting aside of time, attention, or effort for a particular task or goal.

Cultural References

Earmarked has been used in various contexts in popular culture, including in literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel “The Big Short” by Michael Lewis, the author describes the banking industry’s practice of earmarking funds for certain purposes.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Some idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word Earmarked include:

• Earmarked for greatness
• Earmarked for something in particular

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases closely related in meaning or usage to Earmarked include:

• Allocate
• Designate
• Assign

Collocations

Common collocations with the word Earmarked include:

• Earmarked funds
• Earmarked resources
• Earmarked time

Frequency of Use

Earmarked is a relatively uncommon word, but it has been increasing in usage over the past few years due to its relevance in financial and budgetary contexts.