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

The relief measure, which needs parliamentary approval, would come on top of a 250 million euro tax break approved nearly three weeks ago. —ABC News, 12 Apr. 2026

Bollinger's amendments included requiring the authority to receive Quorum Court approval by resolution before exercising eminent domain in Benton County. —Arkansas Online, 12 Apr. 2026

The council upheld the commission’s approval, citing narrow legal purview. —Rose Evans april 12, Idaho Statesman, 12 Apr. 2026

Ward 6 City Councilmember Christopher Newlin agreed with residents, saying that the City Council should have the final vote of approval on a project, not just the Planning Commission. —Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 12 Apr. 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

Kids Definition

approval

noun

ap·​prov·​al ə-ˈprü-vəl 

: an act or instance of approving