earmark

Definition

  • noun: a mark or quality that shows what something is or what it could be
  • noun: a mark of identification on the ear of an animal
  • verb: to say that something will be used or treated in a specified way
  • verb: to mark (livestock) with an earmark
  • often used as '(be) earmarked'
  • synonyms: allocate, allot, appoint

Examples

  • The business plan 'had (all) the earmarks' of success. [=it seemed likely to succeed]

  • The project uses funds that had been 'earmarked' for education.

  • The old building has 'been earmarked' for demolition.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Hoo-ah! Well, once, maybe. I suppose he told you about his days on Lyndon Johnson's staff? I was gonna go. Now I'm not leaving. Hah! Frank was earmarked for general. Earmarked, good word. Frank likes to spit in everybody's eye! Randy, that's enough. So they, what do they call it, (..)
    1992 Scent of a Woman
  • (..) Y'all have a nice day. Good day. You understand punitive interest, don't you, Marty? $ is all I've got and it's earmarked. All you got sounds about right. You been here when the dam's let out? No, I haven't. Algae behind those gates comes pouring through the sluices (..)
    2017 TvShow: Ozark Title: Nest Box Season: 1 Episode 7
  • (..) Hate to be the guy that does a favor then asks for one in return... but that new intelligence bill... the one with million in black-budget earmarks? I need that to pass. It's five votes short. That's why we got you the chairmanship. I want you to call a meeting, all (..)
    2010 TvShow: Nikita Title: Phoenix Season: 1 Episode 8