acceptance

noun

ac·​cep·​tance ik-ˈsep-tən(t)s How to pronounce acceptance (audio)
ak-
1
: the quality or state of being accepted or acceptable
His theories have gained widespread acceptance.
2
: the act of accepting something or someone : the fact of being accepted : approval
acceptance of responsibility
3
law : an agreeing either expressly or by conduct to the act or offer of another so that a contract is concluded and the parties become legally bound
4
a
: the act of accepting a time draft or bill of exchange for payment when due according to the specified terms
b
: an accepted draft or bill of exchange
5

Examples of acceptance in a Sentence

her acceptance into the club The university has sent me a letter of acceptance. He delivered an acceptance speech after he was chosen as the party's presidential nominee.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In a symbolic image of Trump’s growing acceptance in parts of Washington, the president-elect had an extended friendly conversation with former President Obama during a state funeral for the late President Carter. Brett Samuels, The Hill, 20 Jan. 2025 And with the acceptance comes a tacit admission of guilt or wrongdoing, even though those who have been pardoned have not been formally accused of any crimes. Colleen Long and Zeke Miller, Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2025 As respondents grew older, their acceptance of a higher retirement age increased. David Faris, Newsweek, 19 Jan. 2025 Hegseth's nomination could depend on women senators Now, Hegseth must pass acceptance with the narrow Republican majority in the Senate. Cybele Mayes-Osterman, USA TODAY, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for acceptance 

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Anglo-French, "agreement to abide by the act on another," from accepter "to accept" + -ance -ance

First Known Use

circa 1530, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of acceptance was circa 1530

Dictionary Entries Near acceptance

Cite this Entry

“Acceptance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acceptance. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

acceptance

noun
ac·​cep·​tance ik-ˈsep-tən(t)s How to pronounce acceptance (audio)
ak-
1
: the act of accepting
2
: the quality or state of being accepted or acceptable
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!