Main Entry: pro·ba·tion

Pronunciation: \prō-ˈbā-shən\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English probacioun, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French probation, from Latin probation-, probatio, from probare

Date: 15th century

1 : critical examination and evaluation or subjection to such examination and evaluation
2 a : subjection of an individual to a period of testing and trial to ascertain fitness (as for a job or school) b : the action of suspending the sentence of a convicted offender and giving the offender freedom during good behavior under the supervision of a probation officer c : the state or a period of being subject to probation

— pro·ba·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

— pro·ba·tion·al·ly adverb

— pro·ba·tion·ary \-shə-ˌner-ē\ adjective