I. ˈprōˌbāt, usu -ād.+V; chiefly Brit -_bit noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle English probat, from Latin probatum, neuter of probatus, past participle of probare to try, test, approve, prove — more at prove
1.
a. : the action or process of proving before a competent judicial officer or tribunal that a document offered for official recognition and registration as the last will and testament of a deceased person is genuine — compare common form 2, solemn form
b. : the judicial determination of the validity of a will ; specifically : the establishment of the prima facie validity of a will both as to manner and form of execution and as to the testator's capacity although not the validity of its provisions and also the authorization of an executor or a testamentary trustee to act
c. : the right or jurisdiction of hearing and determining questions or issues arising in matters concerning the probate of wills or the administration of decedents' estates
2. : the officially authenticated copy of a will that together with a certificate of its having been proved is usually delivered to the executor or administrator
3. archaic : something that proves : a piece of evidence : demonstration , proof , testimony
II. transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
1.
a. : to make probate of (an instrument purporting to be the last will and testament of a person) : establish (a will) by probate as genuine and valid
b. : to grant probate of (a will) : determine judicially the validity of
2. : to put (a convicted offender) on probation