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
Transfer to a clean large bowl, and set aside; repeat with remaining half of steak. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 28 June 2026 The funding gap isn’t a matter of the money not existing, the money has already been set aside but is being withheld. — Kelly Fleming, Forbes.com, 1 July 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 Justice Samuel Alito might say the need for racial set-asides is over, but Democrats disagree. — David Weigel, semafor.com, 30 Apr. 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 7 Jul. 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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