v. 1 tr. confirm; sanction (approved his application). 2 intr. give or have a favourable opinion. 3 tr. commend (approved the new hat). 4 tr. archaic (usu. refl.) demonstrate oneself to be (approved himself a coward). approved school hist. a residential place of training for young offenders. approve of 1 pronounce or consider good or satisfactory; commend. 2 agree to. approvingly adv.
[ ME f. OF aprover f. L (as APPROBATE) ]