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

Beaver’s letter said the county’s approval processes complied with applicable legal standards, and the county has no jurisdiction over federal or state level approvals. — Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026

Applications will cost €20, most are expected to be processed within minutes, and approvals will generally remain valid for three years. — Bailey Berg, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

Choose one expressive outlet, polish one detail, and let joy strengthen your confidence without needing outside approval first. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 Aug. 2026

The agent drafted the message and sent it back to Bird for approval. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 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