Definition
The formal political process of giving official approval to a treaty, amendment, or agreement—basically when enough important people sign off to make something legally binding. It's the difference between a handshake deal and an actual law, requiring specific legislative or constitutional procedures that vary by country. This is democracy's way of ensuring major decisions aren't made by one enthusiastic intern with a stamp.
Example Usage
The climate treaty was signed by world leaders in December but won't take effect until at least 55 countries have ratified it through their domestic processes.
Source: Political and legal terminology
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See “ratified” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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