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 administration said the work could begin as soon as the approval and the Interior Department issued a final decision authorizing construction and the proper notification was published by the National Park Service. — Matthew Daly, Arkansas Online, 7 Nov. 2026

The request requires approval from four of seven state Supreme Court justices for inmates with multiple convictions. — The Sacramento Bee Staff, Sacbee.com, 7 Nov. 2026

The judge also barred the administration from removing trees from the course without court approval. — Joe Heim, Washington Post, 7 Nov. 2026

Infrastructure and feasibility challenges remain Even if the projects receive final city approval, construction could be years away. — Lauren Breunig, Baltimore Sun, 7 Nov. 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