earmark

[eer-mahrk]

noun

1. any identifying or distinguishing mark or characteristic.

   The mayor's statement had all the earmarks of dirty politics.

2. a mark of identification made on the ear of an animal to show ownership.

3. a provision in a piece of Congressional legislation that directs specified federal funds to specific projects, programs, organizations, or individuals.

   Lawmakers requested almost 40,000 earmarks worth more than $100 billion directed to their home districts and states.

verb (used with object)

1. to set aside for a specific purpose, use, recipient, etc..

   to earmark goods for export.

2. to mark with an earmark.

earmark

/ ˈɪəˌmɑːk /

verb

1. to set aside or mark out for a specific purpose

2. to make an identification mark on the ear of (a domestic animal)

noun

1. a mark of identification on the ear of a domestic animal

2. any distinguishing mark or characteristic

Other Word Forms

• unearmarked adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of earmark¹

First recorded in 1515–25; ear ¹ + mark ¹

Example Sentences

More than 100 of its shops have either shut or been earmarked for closure since the summer.

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For example, if there are any children in your life, you can help fund 529 plans for them, which is a tax-advantageous investment account earmarked for education expenses.

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It is separate from any checking-account balances for routine expenses, and separate from any savings earmarked for other uses, such as vacations, gifts or a down payment on a house.

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This year, another four billion rubles was earmarked to equip 23,000 schools with model Kalashnikovs, grenades and drone kits.

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But her diary makes clear that her priority was to rule and develop Liberland, earmarking millions of pounds for this project.

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Related Words

• allocate 
• designate 
• set aside