Imprimatur

/ˌɪmprɪˈmɑːtər/
noun

An official approval or license to print or publish a book, a document, etc.

The manuscript received the imprimatur of the head archbishop.
Visual representation of "imprimatur" - An official approval or license to print or publish a book, a document, etc.

Often appears as...

  • grant an imprimatur
  • receive an imprimatur

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

noun

A permission or endorsement, especially in a symbolic or authoritative manner.

The project has finally received the imprimatur of the CEO.
Visual representation of "imprimatur" - A permission or endorsement, especially in a symbolic or authoritative manner

Often appears as...

  • authority's imprimatur
  • lacked the imprimatur

Usage tips

Formal

Business, General

noun

An official approval or license to print or publish a book, a document, etc.

The manuscript received the imprimatur of the head archbishop.
Visual representation of "imprimatur" - An official approval or license to print or publish a book, a document, etc.

Often appears as...

  • grant an imprimatur
  • receive an imprimatur

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

noun

A permission or endorsement, especially in a symbolic or authoritative manner.

The project has finally received the imprimatur of the CEO.
Visual representation of "imprimatur" - A permission or endorsement, especially in a symbolic or authoritative manner

Often appears as...

  • authority's imprimatur
  • lacked the imprimatur

Usage tips

Formal

Business, General

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "imprimatur"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Historic Origins

Originally used by the Catholic Church to denote approval to publish religious materials. Understanding historical context helps clarifying modern usage.

Illustration for Historic Origins
The theological book earned the imprimatur after rigorous evaluation.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Symbolic Weight

Imprimatur conveys a sense of authority and gravitas, often associated with institutional or high-level backing.

Illustration for Symbolic Weight
His thesis gained an added prestige with the university's imprimatur.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Beyond Publishing

Though associated with publication, 'imprimatur' can refer to approval in broader contexts like projects or ideas.

Illustration for Beyond Publishing
The innovation plan awaited the manager's imprimatur before proceeding.
Word comparison image

Compare with

accreditorapprovalauthorizationconfirmationendorsepermissionratificationsanction
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Imprimatur"

Never forget "Imprimatur"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery

Video examples

Joan Halifax: Compassion...

a woman whose mother had been a slave to take care of me. And that woman did not have sentimental compassion. She had phenomenal strength. And it was really her strength, I believe, that became the kind of mudra and imprimatur

Video examples

Joan Halifax: Compassion...

a woman whose mother had been a slave to take care of me. And that woman did not have sentimental compassion. She had phenomenal strength. And it was really her strength, I believe, that became the kind of mudra and imprimatur

Example 1 of 1

Quote examples

Elvis Mitchell

American Critic

LACMA has the imprimatur of art, and that's a big leg up.
Portrait of Elvis Mitchell

Quote examples

Elvis Mitchell

American Critic

LACMA has the imprimatur of art, and that's a big leg up.
Portrait of Elvis Mitchell
Example 1 of 1
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top