ratify

[rat-uh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

ratified, ratifying 

1. to confirm by expressing consent, approval, or formal sanction.

   to ratify a constitutional amendment.

   Synonyms: approve, corroborate
   Antonyms: disapprove, veto

2. to confirm (something done or arranged by an agent or by representatives) by such action.

   Synonyms: establish, validate

ratify

/ ˈrætɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. (tr) to give formal approval or consent to

Other Word Forms

• ratifier noun
• nonratifying adjective
• ratifiable adjective
• ratification noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ratify¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English ratifien, from Middle French ratifier, from Medieval Latin ratificāre, equivalent to Latin rat(us) “calculated” ( rate ¹ ) + -ificāre -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of ratify¹

C14: via Old French from Latin ratus fixed (see _rate ¹ ) + facere to make

Example Sentences

Though Israel had still not formally ratified the pact, it was expected to do so Thursday evening, and celebrations had already broken out in the country.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Americans who drafted and ratified this sentence plainly understood that it conferred citizenship upon American-born children of aliens.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Macron said on Thursday that he was ready to suspend plans to ratify the bill in late June if protesters swiftly dismantle road blockades that have crippled New Caledonia’s economy.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The move comes weeks after the commission outlined a formal trade deal with the Mercosur nations of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, which still has to be ratified by European Union member states.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

In a post on X, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a "great day", adding that he would "convene the government tomorrow to ratify the agreement and bring all of our precious hostages home".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• approve 
• confirm 
• endorse 
• establish 
• okay 
• sign 
• uphold