English · Word Candidate

approve

/əˈpɹuːv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: approves · approving

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To officially sanction; to ratify; to confirm; to set as satisfactory.

Verb

Although we may disagree with it, we must nevertheless approve the sentence handed down by the court-martial.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To regard as good; to commend; to be pleased with; to think well of.

Verb

We approve the measure of the administration, for it is an excellent decision.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To make profit of; to convert to one's own profit — said especially of waste or common land appropriated by the lord of the manor.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “approve” mean?

To officially sanction; to ratify; to confirm; to set as satisfactory.

Is “approve” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.