approbation

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Noun 1.3.1 Synonyms 1.3.2 Usage notes

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

From Latin approbatio: compare with French approbation. See approve, to prove.

[edit] Pronunciation

• (US) IPA: /æp.ɹəˈbe.ʃən/
•  Audio (US)^{help, file}

[edit] Noun

approbation (plural approbations)

1. The act of approving; an assenting to the propriety of a thing with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction; approval, sanction, commendation or official recognition
   • Thomas Babington Macaulay

     Many...joined in a loud hum of approbation.

   • William Melmoth

     The silent approbation of one's own breast.

   • Charles Darwin,

     Animals...love approbation or praise.

[edit] Synonyms

• approval; liking; sanction; consent; concurrence.
• See also Wikisaurus:praise

[edit] Usage notes

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.
(material dates from 1913)