Added 9 October 2026
probation
/ˌpɹə(ʊ)ˈbeɪʃən/ noun
Latin root: probatio Wiktionary
noun Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about probation at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
- A trial period during which your character and abilities are tested to see whether you are suitable for work or for membership.
- A trial period during which an offender has time to redeem himself or herself.
-
(law) a way of dealing with offenders without imprisoning them; a defendant found guilty of a crime is released by the court without imprisonment subject to conditions imposed by the court.
probation is part of the sentencing process
Origin
Inherited from Middle English probacioun, from Middle French probation, from Old French probacion, from Latin probatio (“a trying, inspection, examination”), from probare, past participle probatus (“to test, examine”); see probate, probe, prove.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)