approve

Definition

To officially sanction; to ratify; to confirm; to set as satisfactory.

Etymology

From Middle English aproven, appreoven, appreven, apreven, borrowed from Old French aprover, approver, approuvir, appreuver (“to approve”), from Latin approbō, from ad + probō (“to esteem as good, approve, prove”). Doublet of approbate. By surface analysis, ad- + prove.

Example Sentences

• "Although we may disagree with it, we must nevertheless approve the sentence handed down by the court-martial."
• "It has jailed environmental activists and is planning to limit the power of judicial oversight by handing a state-approved body a monopoly over bringing environmental lawsuits."
• "We approve the measure of the administration, for it is an excellent decision."

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