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

He said there had been a council underspend and £1.9m has been earmarked to pay for changes.

From BBC

"They're using the excuse of the fire as a reason to bring it forward for closure. Would this school have been earmarked for closure had the fire not happened? I don't think it would have."

From BBC

Most of the stores earmarked for closure are in North America and its chief executive said the revamp would reduce wait times and help revive sales.

From BBC

The BBC understands concerns over the long-term costs of the line earmarked between Liverpool and Manchester have pushed back the revival of Northern Powerhouse Rail.

From BBC

Amazon said five of the stores earmarked for closure would be converted in to Whole Foods stores, a fresh and whole food brand which Amazon owns.

From BBC

Related Words

• allocate 
• designate 
• set aside