acceptance

noun

ac·​cep·​tance ik-ˈsep-tən(t)s 

ak-

1

: the quality or state of being accepted or acceptable

His theories have gained widespread acceptance.

2

: the act of accepting something or someone : the fact of being accepted : approval

acceptance of responsibility

3

law : an agreeing either expressly or by conduct to the act or offer of another so that a contract is concluded and the parties become legally bound

4

a

: the act of accepting a time draft or bill of exchange for payment when due according to the specified terms

b

: an accepted draft or bill of exchange

5

: acceptation sense 2

Examples of acceptance in a Sentence

her acceptance into the club

The university has sent me a letter of acceptance.

He delivered an acceptance speech after he was chosen as the party's presidential nominee.

Recent Examples on the Web

Aid workers build trust and acceptance by not picking sides in a conflict and providing aid based on need. —Chen Reis, The Conversation, 21 Mar. 2025

Proceeds go to nonprofit groups that support autism research, awareness, and acceptance. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Mar. 2025

Through raw honesty and unwavering determination, Jason’s story resonates as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of self-discovery and acceptance. —Addie Morfoot, Variety, 19 Mar. 2025

As with the first, Phil’s reaction is one of acceptance. —Matt Woosnam, The Athletic, 14 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Anglo-French, "agreement to abide by the act on another," from accepter "to accept" + -ance -ance

First Known Use

circa 1530, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Phrases Containing acceptance

• acceptance speech
• banker's acceptance
• find acceptance
• self-acceptance
• trade acceptance

Rhymes for acceptance

• nonacceptance

Kids Definition

acceptance

noun

ac·​cep·​tance ik-ˈsep-tən(t)s 

ak-

1

: the act of accepting

2

: the quality or state of being accepted or acceptable