sanction

Meaning

Noun

1. (countable, uncountable) An approval, by an authority, generally one that makes something valid.
2. (countable, in-plural, uncountable) A penalty, punishment, or some coercive measure, intended to ensure compliance; especially one adopted by several nations, or by an international body.
3. (countable, uncountable) A law, treaty, or contract, or a clause within a law, treaty, or contract, specifying any of the above.

Verb

1. (transitive) To ratify; to make valid.
2. (transitive) To give official authorization or approval to; to countenance.
3. (transitive) To penalize (a state etc.) with sanctions.

Synonyms

approval

approve

permission

authorize

authorization

ratify

approbation

punishment

ratification

authorise

countenance

authority

permit

endorse

pass

imprimatur

confirm

penalty

allow

authorisation

warrant

confirmation

penalize

consent

okay

endorsement

leave

approbate

recognise

verify

recognize

say-so

O.K.

corroborate

assent

license

acceptation

mandate

indorsement

acceptance

certification

enactment

adopt

empower

let

approachable

applause

👏

admit

authentication

applaud

Translations

sanction

Sanktion

sanción

sanzione

sanção

sanctionner

sanctie

sancionar

έγκριση

approuver

autorisation

autorización

εγκρίνω

bekrachtigen

κύρωση

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈsæŋkʃən/

Etymology

From Middle French sanction, from Latin sānctiō.