n. [ L. approbatio: cf. F. approbation. See Approve to prove. ] 1. Proof; attestation. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The act of approving; an assenting to the propriety of a thing with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction; approval; sanction; commendation. [ 1913 Webster ]

Many . . . joined in a loud hum of approbation. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

The silent approbation of one's own breast. Melmoth. [ 1913 Webster ]

Animals . . . love approbation or praise. Darwin. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Probation or novitiate. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

This day my sister should the cloister enter,
And there receive her approbation. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

Syn. -- Approval; liking; sanction; consent; concurrence. -- Approbation, Approval. Approbation and approval have the same general meaning, assenting to or declaring as good, sanction, commendation; but approbation is stronger and more positive. “We may be anxious for the approbation of our friends; but we should be still more anxious for the approval of our own consciences.” “He who is desirous to obtain universal approbation will learn a good lesson from the fable of the old man and his ass.” “The work has been examined by several excellent judges, who have expressed their unqualified approval of its plan and execution.” [ 1913 Webster ]