noun
probation
pruh-BAY-shuhn
noun
1
A trial period during which someone's suitability for a job or role is being assessed, and they can be dismissed if they don't meet expectations.
"New hires are on probation for the first ninety days."
2
A criminal sentence that allows someone to remain in the community under supervision instead of going to prison, as long as they follow certain conditions.
"She was sentenced to two years of probation instead of jail time."
How to Use Probation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA trial or testing period — either at a job or as a lighter alternative to prison.
Common pairings
on probation
probation period
probation officer
Word Forms
probations plural
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New hires are on _____ for the first ninety days.
Etymology
From Latin probatio, "a testing or proving," from probare, "to test or examine" — the same root as "probe" and "prove."