approval

noun

ap·​prov·​al ə-ˈprü-vəl 

: an act or instance of approving something : approbation

The change is subject to the committee's approval.

see also:

on approval

Synonyms of approval

• favor
• blessing
• approbation
• assent
• vote
• nod
• support
• endorsement

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

Jolly replaced him and, within two months, secured Moreno’s approval to hire the architect of a World Series championship team to figure out what was not right in the organization, and to fix it. — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 6 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

The next step in the process involves the city drafting a redevelopment plan outlining development standards before holding public hearings and seeking additional approvals. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026

In the late 1980s, its ‌founder ⁠Marcel Lefebvre consecrated four bishops without the approval of Pope John Paul II, leading those involved to be excommunicated. — Reuters, NBC news, 5 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

see approve

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing approval

• approval rating
• find approval/favor
• meet with one's approval
• on approval
• pre-approval
• seal of approval
• stamp of approval

Rhymes for approval

• removal
• disapproval
• reapproval
• uveal

Kids Definition

approval

noun

ap·​prov·​al ə-ˈprü-vəl 

: an act or instance of approving