Imprimatur
(noun)
- An official license granted by a church authority, especially the Catholic Church, permitting the printing or publication of a book or other work.
- An endorsement or approval given to a publication, artwork, or performance.
Origin:
Derived from the latin word 'imprimatur' meaning 'let it be printed', 'imprimatur' has been in use in english language since 16th century.
Examples:
- The book was approved by the Vatican and received the imprimatur.
- The play received the imprimatur of the theater company, meaning it was deemed suitable for performance.
- The new artwork received the imprimatur of the museum, and was put on display.
- The composer's work received the imprimatur of the music critic, who praised its innovative approach.
- The imprimatur of the government was necessary in order for the book to be published.