probation
|pro-ba-tion|
🇺🇸
/proʊˈbeɪ.ʃən/
🇬🇧
/prəˈbeɪ.ʃ(ə)n/
testing period
Etymology
'probation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'probatio', where the root 'probare' meant 'to test' or 'to prove' and 'probus' meant 'good'.
'probation' changed from Medieval Latin 'probatio' (and Old French 'probacion') into Middle English as 'probacion' and eventually became the modern English word 'probation'.
Initially it meant 'an act of testing or proving'; over time it developed the more specific senses of 'a trial period for performance/behavior' and 'conditional release under supervision' used today.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a period of testing or trial to assess suitability, ability, or behavior (often used for new employees or students).
During the first three months on probation, new hires are evaluated for permanent employment.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
in criminal justice, a period during which a convicted person is released under supervision instead of serving time in prison; conditional release subject to compliance with certain conditions.
The court placed him on probation for two years instead of imposing a prison sentence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
a state of being under formal observation or trial, e.g. when behaviour or performance is being monitored.
After the complaint the employee remained on probation while the company investigated.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/26 01:05