1sanc·tion 
/ˈsæŋkʃən/ noun
plural sanc·tions /ˈsæŋkʃən/ noun formal 1 [count] : an action that is taken or an order that is given to force a country to obey international laws by limiting or stopping trade with that country, by not allowing economic aid for that country, etc. — usually plural ▪ The United Nations has decided to impose trade/economic sanctions on the country. — often + against ▪ Sanctions against the country have been lifted. 2 [noncount] : official permission or approval
▪ The country acted without the sanction of the other nations. ▪ Their policy has/lacks legal sanction.
▪ The country acted without the sanction of the other nations. ▪ Their policy has/lacks legal sanction.
