| sanction | |
| 1. n. An approval, by an authority, generally one that makes something valid. | |
| 2. n. A penalty, punishment, or some coercive measure, intended to ensure compliance; especially one adopted by several nations, or by an international body. | |
| 3. n. A law, treaty, or contract, or a clause within a law, treaty, or contract, specifying either of the above. | |
| 4. v. To ratify; to make valid. | |
| 5. v. To give official authorization or approval to; to countenance. | |
| 6. v. To penalize (a State etc.) with sanctions. | |
