get the nod

Idioms  

1. Receive approval or assent, as in, The contestant got the nod from the judges. Similarly give the nod means “to show approval or assent.” These expressions allude to the quick inclination of the head to indicate approval. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

get the nod

Their identities are kept secret for 50 years, leaving Nobel watchers guessing about who will get the nod.

From Barron's ● Oct. 9, 2026

When the congresswoman told O’Handley that Vance would get the nod instead, he placed a winning bet on Polymarket, the person said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 18, 2026

Nico O'Reilly's outstanding form for Manchester City means he will almost certainly be selected, with Newcastle duo Dan Burn and Lewis Hall also hoping to get the nod.

From BBC ● May 21, 2026

The index isn’t just a compilation of the largest U.S. companies, and the largest eligible candidates don’t always get the nod when it’s time to make changes.

From MarketWatch ● Apr. 6, 2026

The day before our first game, Coach announces the starting lineup, and I get the nod at point guard.

From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick

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