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

For most of those who spoke with ABC News, joining the military is a series of career decisions rather than approval or disapproval about the administration in power. — Steven Beynon, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

If both parties are PLA members, superiors must step in to mediate the relationship breakdown, and the couple can only get a civil divorce with the military’s approval, which can result in a longer process. — Sylvie Zhuang, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2026

If the consensus in the community is to allow dogs in units, the declaration needs be amended to allow dogs, which requires the requisite unit owner approval as stated in the declaration amendment provision. — Howard Dakoff, Chicago Tribune, 16 Aug. 2026

Ridesharing and hybrid vehicles Driverless Waymo ridesharing wins approval for drastic expansion in Los Angeles and the Bay Area. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 16 Aug. 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