Ratify Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Ratify, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Ratify?

(V) ‘Ratify’ is the process by which an authorized person regularize the action or decision taken by some other person without proper authority or prior approval required while doing such acts

History and Meaning of Ratify

The term "ratify" derives from the Latin "ratus" which translates to "fixed" or "settled". In its legal context, it means to confirm or approve a decision or agreement made by another party. Essentially, it is the process of giving official approval or consent to something that has already been done or agreed upon.

Examples of Ratify

  1. The board of directors voted to ratify the CEO's decision to enter into a merger agreement with another company.
  2. The United States Senate voted to ratify the Paris Agreement on climate change.
  3. The union members voted to ratify the new collective bargaining agreement.
  4. The government ratified the treaty with a foreign nation, officially making it binding and valid.
  5. The student council voted to ratify the new club constitution.

Legal Terms Similar to Ratify

  1. Approve - to formally agree to or authorize something.
  2. Confirm - to verify or authenticate the accuracy or validity of something.
  3. Adopt - to take up something and make it one's own by open declaration.
  4. Sanction - official permission or approval for an action to be taken.