Probation

As a Noun

1. A period of testing or trial to evaluate someone’s suitability for a role or position.
2. A legal condition where an offender is released under supervision instead of serving time in prison.
3. A period of supervision for students or employees due to poor performance or misconduct.

As Other Form

• Probationary (Adjective): Relating to or involving a trial period of testing or evaluation.

Word History

The word probation comes from the Latin probare, meaning “to test” or “to prove.” It was first used in legal contexts in the 15th century, referring to the act of proving someone’s behavior. Over time, its meaning expanded to include employment, education, and other areas where individuals are assessed before gaining full status.

Examples

1. The new employee is on a six-month probation period.
2. The judge sentenced him to probation instead of jail time.
3. If a student’s grades don’t improve, they may be placed on academic probation.

Synonyms

Trial, testing, assessment, supervision, evaluation

Related Words

Parole, apprenticeship, monitoring, observation

Antonyms

Permanency, freedom, tenure, certainty