depreciation

[dih-pree-shee-ey-shuhn]

noun

1. decrease in value due to wear and tear, decay, decline in price, etc.

2. such a decrease as allowed in computing the value of property for tax purposes.

3. a decrease in the purchasing or exchange value of money.

4. a lowering in estimation.

depreciation

/ dɪˌpriːʃɪˈeɪʃən /

noun

1. accounting

   1. the reduction in value of a fixed asset due to use, obsolescence, etc

   2. the amount deducted from gross profit to allow for such reduction in value

2. accounting a modified amount permitted for purposes of tax deduction

3. the act or an instance of depreciating or belittling; disparagement

4. a decrease in the exchange value of currency against gold or other currencies brought about by excess supply of that currency under conditions of fluctuating exchange rates Compare devaluation

depreciation

1. A decline over time in the value of a tangible asset, such as a house or car.

Other Word Forms

• nondepreciation noun
• predepreciation noun
• redepreciation noun
• underdepreciation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of depreciation¹

An Americanism dating back to 1730–40; depreciate + -ion

Example Sentences

I didn’t adjust for the inflation or the depreciation of the dollar, but I was always ahead.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The ruling could significantly impact Venture Global’s projected earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization of $6.4 billion to $6.8 billion.

Read more on Barron's

Citi Research analysts expect to see this increased spend reflected in adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization.

Read more on Barron's

“Delaying rate hikes will in turn stoke further yen depreciation,” they said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

That price amounts to about eight times the earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization expected for 2025—a reasonable valuation considering that earnings are now depressed across the chemicals industry.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• deflation 
• reduction 
• slump