Meaning

• A mark or deformation of the ear of an animal, intended to indicate ownership.

• The designation of specific projects in appropriations of funding for general programs.

• A mark for identification; a distinguishing mark.

Meaning

• To mark (as of sheep) by slitting the ear.

• (by extension) To specify or set aside for a particular purpose, to allocate.

  "You can donate to the organization as a whole, or you can earmark your contribution for a particular project."