əˈpɹuːvəl əˈpɹuvəl ˌsaɪˈteɪʃn̩ ˌsaɪˈteɪʃən ˌkɒmənˈdeɪʃən ˌkɑmənˈdeɪʃən a message expressing a favorable opinion words of approval seldom passed his lips an official award (as for bravery or service) usually given as formal public statement