verb

earmark

to earmark, to set aside

The funds were earmarked for research.

The funds were earmarked for research.

She earmarked the money for a new car.

She earmarked the money for a new car.

((sth.)) ((for sth.)) to keep or intend something for a particular purpose. The funds were earmarked for research.

Synonyms: allocate, designate, reserve, set aside

From 'ear' + 'mark'. Originally, a mark on an animal's ear to show ownership.

Imagine putting a physical 'mark' on the 'ear' of a pile of money to show what it's for.

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