Meaning & Definition of word "Sanction"

Sanction

/ˈsæŋkʃən/

1. A penalty or coercive measure imposed to enforce compliance with a law or regulation.
- Example: The country faced international sanctions due to its human rights violations.
2. Official approval or authorization for an action.
- Example: We need to obtain the proper sanctions from the committee before proceeding with the project.

1. To impose a penalty on or to give official approval to.
- Example: The government decided to sanction the company for its unethical practices.
2. To authorize or approve, often in an official context.
- Example: The board voted to sanction the new policy changes.

Late Latin 'sanctio', from 'sanctus', meaning 'sacred'.

economic sanctions:

Restrictions imposed by countries on trade or financial transactions.

sanctioned by law:

Authorized or approved by legal authority.

to impose sanctions:

To place restrictions or penalties on an entity.

penalty:

A punishment for breaking a rule or law.

authorization:

The action of granting permission.

approval:

The action of officially agreeing to something.

Meaning: A buzzkill

Example Sentence: That new rule is such a sanction on our fun.

Meaning: A downer

Example Sentence: The sanctions they placed on the party really killed the vibe.