earmark
//ˈɪəˌmɑːk//
Verb
earmarkInfinitive
earmarkPresent tense
earmarkedPast tense
earmarkedPast participle
earmarkingPresent participle
earmarksThird-person singular
1
To designate or set aside something, especially money or resources, for a particular purpose.
The government earmarked funds for education reform.
2
To mark the ear of an animal as a sign of ownership.
The farmer earmarked his sheep to identify them as his own.
Noun
earmarkSingular
earmarksPlural
1
A distinguishing mark or characteristic that identifies something.
Attention to detail is the earmark of a true professional.
2
A provision in legislation that directs funds to a specific project or recipient.
The senator added an earmark to the bill to fund a new highway in his state.
3
A mark made on the ear of an animal to indicate ownership.
The farmer put an earmark on each sheep to identify his flock.