American Dictionary

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Definition probation in American English

probation noun

[uncountable] noun
/prəˈbeɪʃ(ə)n/
1

a system by which someone who has committed a crime is not sent to prison, but has to agree not to break the law again and to let a probation officer check their behavior for a specific period of time

Example

She received a $3,000 fine and was placed on probation for four years.

Example

Harris was given 18 months' probation.

Synonyms and related words
2

a period of time during which someone who has been given a new job is watched to see whether they can do the job well and stay in the position

3

a period of time during which a student must improve their work or behavior in order to stay in school

Example

He's on academic probation.

Synonyms and related words
Definition probation in American English