Earmark Definition

îrmärk
earmarked, earmarks
noun
An identification mark put on, or cut into, the ear of a domestic animal to show ownership.
Webster's New World
Any identifying mark or feature; characteristic; sign.
Webster's New World
An item or provision in a legislative bill that allots money for a project or institution in a specific locale, usually written or sponsored by a representative from that area.
American Heritage
Something specially set aside or reserved; often, specif., a government spending appropriation inserted into a bill, committee report, etc. and directed toward or benefiting a particular recipient.
Webster's New World

(US, politics) The designation of specific projects in appropriations of funding for general programs.

Wiktionary
verb
earmarked, earmarks
To mark the ears of (livestock) for identification, usually by cropping or notching the ears in a distinctive way.
Webster's New World
To set aside or reserve for a special purpose or recipient.
Webster's New World
To set a distinctive or informative mark upon; identify.
Webster's New World
To specify or allocate (funds) to be spent in a legislative earmark.
American Heritage

(by extension) To specify or set aside for a particular purpose.

You can donate to the organization as a whole, or you can earmark your contribution for a particular project.
Wiktionary
Antonyms:

Origin of Earmark

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