Definitions for: Probation

[n] (law) a way of dealing with offenders without imprisoning them; a defendant found guilty of a crime is released by the court without imprisonment subject to conditions imposed by the court; "probation is part of the sentencing process"
[n] a trial period during which an offender has time to redeem himself or herself
[n] a trial period during which your character and abilities are tested to see whether you are suitable for work or for membership

Webster (1913) Definition: Pro*ba"tion, n. [L. probatio, fr. probare to try,
examine, prove: cf. F. probation. See Prove.]
1. The act of proving; also, that which proves anything;
proof. [Obs.]

When by miracle God dispensed great gifts to the
laity, . . . he gave probation that he intended that
all should prophesy and preach. --Jer. Taylor.

2. Any proceeding designed to ascertain truth, to determine
character, qualification, etc.; examination; trial; as, to
engage a person on probation. Hence, specifically:
(a) The novitiate which a person must pass in a convent,
to probe his or her virtue and ability to bear the
severities of the rule.
(b) The trial of a ministerial candidate's qualifications
prior to his ordination, or to his settlement as a
pastor.
(c) Moral trial; the state of man in the present life, in
which he has the opportunity of proving his character,
and becoming qualified for a happier state.

No [view of human life] seems so reasonable as
that which regards it as a state of probation.
--Paley.

See Also: freeing, liberation, release, test period, trial period

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