Sanction

1. Solemn or ceremonious ratification; an official act of a superior by which he ratifies and gives validity to the act of some other person or body; establishment or furtherance of anything by giving authority to it; confirmation; approbation.
2. Anything done or said to enforce the will, law, or authority of another; as, legal sanctions.
3. To give sanction to; to ratify; to confirm; to approve.