Approbation
hardPositive toneap-ruh-BAY-shun
noun
Definition
official or warm approval and praise
Memory hook
Sounds like 'a-PROBE-ation': the judges PROBE your work and stamp it with glowing approval.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The young scientist's findings won the immediate approbation of the senior faculty.”
“She craved her mentor's approbation more than any prize.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The young scientist's findings won the immediate ______ of the senior faculty.”
Show answer
approbation
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Approbation is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "approval" or "commendation" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "censure".
Related GRE Words
plaudits
Praise; enthusiastic approval
acclaim
Enthusiastic public praise or approval
accolade
An award or privilege granted as a special honor; high praise
applaud
To show approval by clapping; to express warm approval or praise
commend
To praise formally or officially; to recommend
compliment
An expression of praise or admiration; to praise or express admiration
Master approbation and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.