Meaning & Definition of Permit in English

1. A legal document giving official permission to do something

2. The act of giving a formal (usually written) authorization

3. Large game fish

• Found in waters of the west indies

1. Consent to, give permission

• "She permitted her son to visit her estranged husband"

• "I won't let the police search her basement"

• "I cannot allow you to see your exam"

2. Make it possible through a specific action or lack of action for something to happen

• "This permits the water to rush in"

• "This sealed door won't allow the water come into the basement"

• "This will permit the rain to run off"

3. Allow the presence of or allow (an activity) without opposing or prohibiting

• "We don't allow dogs here"

• "Children are not permitted beyond this point"

• "We cannot tolerate smoking in the hospital"