sanction

  1. Noun.  An approval, by an authority, generally one that makes something valid.
  2. Noun.  A penalty, or some coercive measure, intended to ensure compliance; especially one adopted by several nations, or by an international body.
  3. Noun.  A law, treaty, or contract, or a clause within a law, treaty, or contract, specifying the above.
  4. Verb.  (transitive) To ratify; to make valid.
  5. Verb.  (transitive) To give official authorization or approval to; to countenance.
  6. Verb.  (transitive) To penalize (a State etc.) with sanctions.

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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.