Meaning & use
probation
A system allowing a convicted offender to remain in the community under supervision instead of serving prison time.
See it in a sentence
The judge sentenced him to two years of probation instead of jail.
New employees are often placed on probation for the first ninety days.
A note on using this word
Outside law, 'probation' also refers to a trial period for a new employee, during which performance is closely evaluated.
Words with a similar meaning
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