\Ap`pro*ba"tion\, n. [L. approbatio: cf. F.
approbation. See {Approve} to prove.]
1. Proof; attestation. [Obs.] --Shak.
2. The act of approving; an assenting to the propriety of a
   thing with some degree of pleasure or satisfaction;
   approval; sanction; commendation.
         Many . . . joined in a loud hum of approbation.
                                               --Macaulay.
         The silent approbation of one's own breast.
                                               --Melmoth.
         Animals . . . love approbation or praise. --Darwin.
3. Probation or novitiate. [Obs.]
         This day my sister should the cloister enter, And
         there receive her approbation.        --Shak.
Syn: Approval; liking; sanction; consent; concurrence.
Usage: {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.''