ap ‧ pre ‧ ci ‧ ate S2 W3 AC /əˈpriːʃieɪt/ BrE AmE verb
[ Word Family: adverb : ↑ appreciably , ↑ appreciatively ; adjective : ↑ appreciable , ↑ appreciative ≠ UNAPPRECIATIVE ; verb : ↑ appreciate ; noun : ↑ appreciation ]
[ Date: 1600-1700 ; Language: Late Latin ; Origin: past participle of appretiare , from Latin ad- 'to' + pretium 'price' ]
1 . [transitive not in progressive] to understand how serious or important a situation or problem is or what someone’s feelings are SYN realize
appreciate the significance/importance/value of something
He did not fully appreciate the significance of signing the contract.
appreciate that
We appreciate that caring for children is an important job.
appreciate what/how/why
It is difficult to appreciate how bad the situation had become.
2 . [transitive] used to thank someone in a polite way or to say that you are grateful for something they have done:
Thanks ever so much for your help, I really appreciate it.
I appreciate your concern, but honestly, I’m fine.
I’d appreciate it if you let me get on with my job.
3 . [transitive] to understand how good or useful someone or something is:
Her abilities are not fully appreciated by her employer.
I’m not an expert, but I appreciate fine works of art.
4 . [intransitive] technical to gradually become more valuable over a period of time OPP depreciate :
Most investments are expected to appreciate at a steady rate.