approval

noun

ap·​prov·​al ə-ˈprü-vəl How to pronounce approval (audio)
Synonyms of approval
: an act or instance of approving something : approbation
The change is subject to the committee's approval.
see also:
on approval

Synonyms of approval

Relevance
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Examples of approval in a Sentence

children who never gained their parents' approval Do I have your approval to make the changes? The rally will be on May 19, provided the city gives its approval. The government has so far withheld approval of the drug. We were required to get approvals at each stage of the project.
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.
The board’s approval of his hire means that the government can begin negotiating his salary and benefits. — Sofi Zeman july 2, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026 One reason ibogaine has struggled to win approval in the past is a lack of financial incentive, Barsuglia said. — Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026 Any restrictions implemented by the mayor would still require council approval. — Idaho Statesman, 3 July 2026 The approval does not immediately allow AT&T to disconnect customers. — Ethan Baron, Mercury News, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for approval

Word History

Etymology

see approve

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of approval was in 1613

Phrases Containing approval

Rhymes for approval

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Browse Nearby Words

approvable
approval
approval book
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Cite this Entry

“Approval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/approval. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

approval

noun
ap·​prov·​al ə-ˈprü-vəl How to pronounce approval (audio)
: an act or instance of approving

More from Merriam-Webster on approval

Nglish: Translation of approval for Spanish Speakers

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