[pro.ba.tion] n [ME probacioun, fr. MF probation, fr. L probation-, probatio, fr. probare] (15c) 1: critical examination and evaluation or subjection to such examination and evaluation
2. a: subjection of an individual to a period of testing and trial to ascertain fitness (as for a job or school) b: the action of suspending the sentence of a convicted offender and giving the offender freedom during good behavior under the supervision of a probation officer c: the state or a period of being subject to probation -- pro.ba.tion.al adj -- pro.ba.tion.al.ly adv -- pro.ba.tion.ary adj