- Approbation
- Approbation Ap`pro*ba"tion, n. [L. approbatio: cf. F.
approbation. See {Approve} to prove.]
1. Proof; attestation. [Obs.] --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
2. The act of approving; an assenting to the propriety of a thing with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction; approval; sanction; commendation. [1913 Webster]
Many . . . joined in a loud hum of approbation. --Macaulay. [1913 Webster]
The silent approbation of one's own breast. --Melmoth. [1913 Webster]
Animals . . . love approbation or praise. --Darwin. [1913 Webster]
3. Probation or novitiate. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
This day my sister should the cloister enter, And there receive her approbation. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
Syn: Approval; liking; sanction; consent; concurrence.
Usage: {Approbation}, {Approval}. Approbation and approval have the same general meaning, assenting to or declaring as good, sanction, commendation; but approbation is stronger and more positive. ``We may be anxious for the approbation of our friends; but we should be still more anxious for the approval of our own consciences.'' ``He who is desirous to obtain universal approbation will learn a good lesson from the fable of the old man and his ass.'' ``The work has been examined by several excellent judges, who have expressed their unqualified approval of its plan and execution.'' [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.