rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryapproveOfficial acceptance
verb

approve

uh-PROOV/əˈpruːv/

To judge something acceptable or worthy of support.

The supervisor approves the finished chair with a smile and a raised thumb.

Asian woman supervisor accepts finished chair with approving smile and thumbs-up, craftsperson beside it.
Etymology
apLatinto, toward
+proveLatintest; judge as good

Probare connects testing something with finding it good or worthy. Approve developed from demonstrating or proving to regarding something as good, then giving it acceptance or formal endorsement.

In context

Town Meeting TV94:32
Again, it's been moved and seconded to approve the FY24 budget as presented. All those in favor, please say I. I. I. I.
Chittenden Solid Waste District - 3/8/2023

More examples

  • The council approved the building plans.
  • Not everyone approves of his blunt manner.
  • Her approving smile showed that she liked the choice.

Forms

approve · approves · approved · approving

approval noun — a favorable opinion of someone or something

approving adjective — showing a favorable opinion or attitude

Similar words

like
Expresses personal enjoyment or affection rather than favorable judgment.
endorse
Suggests explicit support, often expressed publicly rather than privately.