approval

[ uh-proo-vuhl ]

noun

1. the act of approving; approbation.
2. formal permission or sanction.
3. Philately. one of a group of selected stamps sent by a dealer to a prospective customer for examination and either purchase or return.

approval

/ əˈpruːvəl /

noun

1. the act of approving
2. formal agreement; sanction
3. a favourable opinion; commendation
4. on approval
   (of articles for sale) for examination with an option to buy or return

Other Words From

• nonap·proval noun
• preap·proval noun
• proap·proval adjective
• reap·proval noun
• self-ap·proval noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of approval¹

First recorded in 1680–90; approve + -al ²

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on approval, without obligation to buy unless satisfactory to the customer upon trial or examination and, otherwise, returnable:

   We ship merchandise on approval.

More idioms and phrases containing approval

see on approval ; seal of approval .

Example Sentences

The majority of those employees who wouldn’t be hit work with agencies whose DOGE-style “reorganizations” would require congressional approval—which isn’t inevitable, since Republicans command only small majorities in the legislative chambers.

From Slate

But many members of Trump's team, including those who work in the White House or posts like the national security adviser, don't require Senate approval.

From BBC

More than 1,000 positions - including the 15 officials chosen to lead executive departments, known as the Cabinet - typically require Senate approval.

From BBC

The Senate approval process requires nominees to submit financial disclosure forms, fill out a questionnaire - which differs based on the role - and testify before a Senate committee.

From BBC

Many posts require a Senate hearing and the full chamber's approval.

From BBC

Related Words

• blessing
• confirmation
• consent
• endorsement
• go ahead
• green light
• license
• mandate
• permission
• ratification
• recommendation
• sanction
• support