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noun Common

allocation

al-uh-KAY-shuhn

Allocation (noun) means the act of assigning something, especially money or resources, for a particular purpose. Example: “The government announced a new allocation of funds for hospitals.”

noun
1
The act of assigning something, especially money or resources, for a particular purpose.
"The government announced a new allocation of funds for hospitals."
"Each team member has an allocation of tasks for the sprint."
2
The specific share or amount assigned.
"Her monthly allocation of overtime hours had already been used up."

How to Use Allocation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA share of something — often money, resources, or time — that has been set aside for a specific purpose.

Common pairings
budget allocation resource allocation seat allocation

Word Forms

allocations plural

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Test yourself on “allocation” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The government announced a new _____ of funds for hospitals.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin allocatio, built on the same root as "allocate."

Origin: Medieval Latin

Rhymes for allocation

See all rhymes for allocation →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “allocation” mean?

The word “allocation” means the act of assigning something, especially money or resources, for a particular purpose. In plain terms, a share of something — often money, resources, or time — that has been set aside for a specific purpose.

How do you pronounce “allocation”?

“Allocation” is pronounced al-uh-KAY-shuhn (/ˌæl.əˈkeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “allocation” in a sentence?

Here is “allocation” used in a sentence: “The government announced a new allocation of funds for hospitals.”

What part of speech is “allocation”?

“Allocation” is a noun.

Where does the word “allocation” come from?

The word “allocation” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin allocatio, built on the same root as "allocate.".

Is “allocation” a common word?

“Allocation” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “allocation” have?

“Allocation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of assigning something, especially money or resources, for a particular purpose.

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