probation

/proʊˈbeɪʃən/

/prəʊˈbeɪʃɪn/

Other forms: probations

A probation is a period of time when a criminal needs to be on their best behavior: they're not in jail (yet or anymore) but they have to do certain things demanded by the court.

Being put on criminal probation is like getting a second chance before more serious penalties apply: you might have to pay a fine, do community service, or be monitored to make sure you don’t get into any more trouble. Some criminals are released from jail early and put on probation. People also talk about probation for non-criminal issues: there could be a probation period for joining a club, when they check you out before deciding to let you in.

Definitions of probation

1. noun

   a trial period during which your character and abilities are tested to see whether you are suitable for work or for membership
   type of:

   test period, trial period

   a period of time during which someone or something is tested
2. noun

   a trial period during which an offender has time to redeem himself or herself
   type of:

   test period, trial period

   a period of time during which someone or something is tested
3. noun

   (law) a way of dealing with offenders without imprisoning them; a defendant found guilty of a crime is released by the court without imprisonment subject to conditions imposed by the court
   “probation is part of the sentencing process”

   type of:

   freeing, liberation, release

   the act of liberating someone or something