Sanction — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun verb /ˈsaŋ(k)-shən/ sanc·tion

Meaning & Definition of Sanction

Sanction (noun)

  1. a formal decree; especially, an ecclesiastical decree
  2. a solemn agreement, oath
  3. something that makes an oath binding

Sanction (verb)

  1. to make valid or binding usually by a formal procedure (such as ratification)
  2. to give effective or authoritative approval or consent to
  3. to attach a sanction or penalty to the violation of (a right, obligation, or command)

Word Forms of Sanction

Inflections: sanctioned, sanctioning

Derived words: sanctionable (adjective)

Origin & Etymology of Sanction

Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin sanction-, sanctio, from sancire to make holy sacred

First known use: 1570

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Sanction

Words & Phrases Containing Sanction

pragmatic sanction

Frequently Asked Questions about Sanction

What does "Sanction" mean?

"Sanction" means a formal decree; especially, an ecclesiastical decree. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: a formal decree; especially, an ecclesiastical decree. It has 6 distinct senses.

Is "Sanction" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Sanction" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.

Is "Sanction" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a C1-level word, "Sanction" is typical of Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE), IELTS band 7.0–8.0, TOEFL iBT 95–113, PTE Academic 76–84, TOEIC Listening & Reading 945+. Advanced words like this are also useful for the GRE, SAT, GMAT, and LSAT.

How do you pronounce "Sanction"?

"Sanction" is pronounced /ˈsaŋ(k)-shən/ and divided into syllables as sanc·tion.

What is the origin of the word "Sanction"?

"Sanction" comes from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin sanction-, sanctio, from sancire to make holy sacred. First known use: 1570.

What does "Sanction" mean as a noun?

As a noun, "Sanction" means: a formal decree; especially, an ecclesiastical decree; a solemn agreement, oath; something that makes an oath binding.

What does "Sanction" mean as a verb?

As a verb, "Sanction" means: to make valid or binding usually by a formal procedure (such as ratification); to give effective or authoritative approval or consent to; to attach a sanction or penalty to the violation of (a right, obligation, or command).

What CEFR level is "Sanction"?

"Sanction" is a C1-level word in SophDict's CEFR vocabulary lists, which group English words from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).