sanction
sanc·tion / ˈsang(k)shən/ • n. 1. a threatened penalty for disobeying a law or rule: a range of sanctions aimed at deterring insider abuse. ∎ (sanctions) measures taken by a nation to coerce another to conform to an international agreement or norms of conduct, typically in the form of restrictions on trade or on participation in official sporting events. ∎ Ethics a consideration operating to enforce obedience to any rule of conduct.2. official permission or approval for an action: he appealed to the bishop for his sanction. ∎ official confirmation or ratification of a law. ∎ hist. Law a law or decree, esp. an ecclesiastical decree.• v. [tr.] 1. (often be sanctioned) give official permission or approval for (an action): only two treatments have been sanctioned by the Food and Drug Administration.2. impose a sanction or penalty on.