Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for sanction.
Definitions

sanction

[sangk-shuhn] / ˈsæŋk ʃən /
NOUN
authorization
Synonyms
STRONGEST
approval
STRONG
acquiescence allowance approbation assent authority backing confirmation consent countenance encouragement endorsement fiat go ahead leave nod okay permission permit ratification recommendation sufferance support word
WEAK
green light seal of approval stamp of approval
Antonyms
STRONG
denial disagreement disapproval discouragement opposition prohibition question refusal rejection veto
WEAK
award honor prevention reward
NOUN
embargo, punishment
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ban boycott injunction penalty sentence
STRONG
command decree writ
WEAK
coercive measure punitive measure
Antonyms
WEAK
award disapproval honor prevention refusal reward veto
VERB
authorize, confirm
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accredit allow approve certify empower endorse permit ratify warrant
STRONG
back bless commission countenance license okay support
WEAK
get behind give the go-ahead give the green light give the nod go for vouch for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deny disagree disallow disapprove invalidate oppose protest refuse reject revoke
STRONG
discourage veto
WEAK
prevent

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.

The NFL isn’t likely to sanction unflattering content, at least not much of it, yet the goal is to make the stories as realistic as possible.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

"This near‑doubling suggests that this additional volume was likely contracted following the sanction waiver," he told AFP.

From Barron's • Apr. 26, 2026

It meets next week to recommend a sanction to the full House.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

Lloyd’s List reported that the ship is owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Company, which has been under sanction from the U.S. since March 2023 due to prior trading with Iran.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

I found a sanction from our work, for I thought I had finally found my truest place in the culture.

From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee

Vocabulary lists containing sanction

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Two-Faced Words: Contronyms

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 5

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!