verb
1.
to find acceptable
they don't approve of their daughter's life-style
Synonyms: accept, approbate, countenance, favor, go (for), hold (with)
Related Word: back (up), stand by, support, sustain, uphold; bear, endure, put up (with), tolerate
Idioms: be in favor of, pat on the back, take kindly to, think well ( or highly) of, view with approval ( or favor)
Contrasted words: deprecate, disfavor, dislike, frown (on or upon); object (to), oppose
Antonyms: disapprove
2.
to give an often formal expression of approval and support
the committee approved the plans for the new clubhouse
Synonyms: accredit, certify, endorse, OK ( or okay), sanction
Related Word: applaud, commend, compliment; confirm, initial, ratify; clear
Contrasted words: refuse, reject, repudiate, spurn; censure, condemn, criticize, reprehend, reprobate
Antonyms: disapprove