An approval, by an authority, generally one that makes something valid.

A penalty, punishment, or some coercive measure, intended to ensure compliance; especially one adopted by several nations, or by an international body.

A law, treaty, or contract, or a clause within a law, treaty, or contract, specifying any of the above.

(transitive) To ratify; to make valid.

(transitive) To give official authorization or approval to; to countenance.

(transitive) To penalize (a state etc.) with sanctions.