sanc·tion 1 /'saŋk-shən/ n
1: a punitive or coercive measure or action that results from failure to comply with a law, rule, or order
a sanction for contempt
2: explicit or official approval
3: an economic or military coercive measure adopted usu. by several nations in concert for forcing a nation violating international law to desist or yield to adjudication
sanction 2 vt
1: to give official approval or consent to: ratify
2: to impose a sanction on
sanction ed the lawyer for professional misconduct
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law. Merriam-Webster. 1996.