sanction

Authoritative permission or approval that makes a course of action valid. synonym: permission.

Support or encouragement, as from public opinion or established custom.

A consideration, influence, or principle that dictates an ethical choice.

The penalty for noncompliance with a law or legal order.

A penalty, specified or in the form of moral pressure, that acts to ensure compliance with a social standard or norm.

A coercive measure adopted usually by several nations acting together against a nation violating international law.

To give official authorization or approval to.

To encourage or tolerate by indicating approval.

To penalize, as for violating a moral principle or international law.