set aside

1 of 2

phrase

Synonyms of set asidenext
1
: to put to one side : discard
2
: to reserve for a purpose : save
3
: dismiss
4
: annul, overrule

set-aside

2 of 2

noun

ˈset-ə-ˌsīd How to pronounce set-aside (audio)
1
: something (such as a portion of receipts or production) that is set aside for a specified purpose
2
: a program requiring a percentage of opportunities (as for jobs or funding) to be reserved for an underrepresented group

Examples of set aside in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Phrase
The team eventually settled on a final blend for Lot #1, with future lots planned from the barrels set aside for this project. — Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 That program, dedicated to assisting unhoused people who seek shelter on the CTA, helps fund outreach work on the CTA’s Red and Blue lines as well as shelter beds set aside specifically for people who shelter on the CTA. — Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026
Noun
All of these efforts would be backed by set-aside financing, ensuring that the city would put its money where its mouth is. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 27 May 2026 Density bonuses should require clear, enforceable community returns, especially affordable housing set-asides. — Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for set aside

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1943, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of set aside was in 1943

Rhymes for set aside

See All Rhymes for set aside

Browse Nearby Words

setarious
set aside
set-aside
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Cite this Entry

“Set aside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20aside. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Legal Definition

set aside

transitive verb
1
: to disagree with and overturn (a decision or act of a lower tribunal) upon review : overrule, vacate
set aside the decree
2
: to deprive of legal effect or force : annul, void
may set aside the contract

More from Merriam-Webster on set aside

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for set aside

Nglish: Translation of set aside for Spanish Speakers

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