1. the generally accepted meaning of a word or expression
Usage: formal
2. favorable reception or approval
Usage: formal; archaic

Examples

• The word ‘gay’ has changed its common acceptation over the decades.
• In legal contexts, terms must be used in their precise acceptation.
• The acceptation of this phrase varies between regions.
• His proposal met with general acceptation among the committee members.
• The new policy gained acceptation after extensive discussion.
• Different acceptations of the same word can cause confusion.