ratify
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to confirm by expressing consent, approval, or formal sanction.
to ratify a constitutional amendment.
- Synonyms:
- approve, corroborate
- Antonyms:
- disapprove, veto
-
to confirm (something done or arranged by an agent or by representatives) by such action.
verb
Other Word Forms
- nonratifying adjective
- ratifiable adjective
- ratification noun
- ratifier noun
Etymology
Origin of ratify
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
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Meanwhile, EU member states are due to vote on whether to ratify a South American trade deal that was signed more than a year ago.
From BBC
It goes back to who ratified their appointments and why.
From BBC
Nancy, Tisdale - and, of course, the Celtic board who ratified the appointment.
From BBC
In the address, Zelensky thanked leaders that have supported Ukraine, but said that "intentions must become security guarantees, and therefore - be ratified".
From BBC
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors will meet Wednesday morning to ratify a local emergency proclamation, allowing the county to seek reimbursement for storm damage and speed up recovery efforts.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
