Pronunciation: [ɹˈatɪfˌa͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The word "ratify" (/ˈrætɪfaɪ/) is spelled with an "r" in the first syllable, followed by a short "a" sound, "t" and "i". The second syllable starts with a long "i" and ends with the unstressed "fy" sound. The word is typically used to indicate the formal approval or confirmation of a treaty, contract, or agreement. It is important to spell the word correctly, as it can affect the legal validity of the document being ratified.
Ratify is a verb that refers to the act of officially approving or confirming something, typically through a formal process. It involves the validation or endorsement of a decision, agreement, or treaty, making it legally binding and enforceable. When an individual or a group ratifies a particular action or document, they acknowledge and accept its validity, thereby giving it their official consent.
Ratification often occurs after a proposal, agreement, or legislation has been agreed upon or passed by the relevant parties involved. It is a necessary step to ensure the implementation and adherence to the terms and conditions set forth in the approved document. This can apply to a wide range of contexts, such as legal contracts, international treaties, constitutional amendments, corporate bylaws, or even internal policies within an organization.
By ratifying a document, authorities or individuals confirm their support, agreement, or commitment to the stated provisions. It signifies both a formal acceptance of the contents of the document and a sense of obligation to comply with its stipulations. Parties may hold a formal ratification ceremony or utilize specific procedures prescribed by law, which may include obtaining signatures, voting, or passing resolutions.
Ratification carries significant weight as it legitimizes actions or decisions, providing them with a recognized status. It establishes that the necessary approvals have been obtained, ensuring that the document is legally binding and enforceable within the defined jurisdiction.
To confirm; to approve and sanction.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word ratify originated from the Latin word ratus, which means fixed or determined. In Latin, the term ratus is the past participle of reri, meaning to reckon or to consider. The Latin form of ratify is ratus facere, which translates to to make fixed or to confirm. The word ratify entered the English language in the 14th century, maintaining its original meaning of to confirm or give formal approval to something.
