ratify

American  

[rat-uh-fahy] / ˈræt əˌfaɪ /

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

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ratify British  

/ ˈrætɪˌfaɪ /

verb

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

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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

Beijing insists it doesn’t conduct testing with yield, in voluntary accordance with an international treaty it hasn’t ratified.

From The Wall Street Journal

Under customary international law and the Law of the Sea Treaty, which our allies have ratified, stateless vessels may be boarded without violating a flag state’s rights.

From The Wall Street Journal

The treaty isn’t legally in force because not enough nations have ratified it, but major powers including China, Russia and the U.S. say they are abiding by its terms.

From The Wall Street Journal

It was a constitutional commitment, ratified by the people.

From The Wall Street Journal

If approved, it would still need to be ratified by the new parliament.

From Barron's

Related Words

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