probation

n. [ L. probatio, fr. probare to try, examine, prove: cf. F. probation. See Prove. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. The act of proving; also, that which proves anything; proof. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

When by miracle God dispensed great gifts to the laity, . . . he gave probation that he intended that all should prophesy and preach. Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Any proceeding designed to ascertain truth, to determine character, qualification, etc.; examination; trial; as, to engage a person on probation. Hence, specifically: (a) The novitiate which a person must pass in a convent, to probe his or her virtue and ability to bear the severities of the rule. (b) The trial of a ministerial candidate's qualifications prior to his ordination, or to his settlement as a pastor. (c) Moral trial; the state of man in the present life, in which he has the opportunity of proving his character, and becoming qualified for a happier state. [ 1913 Webster ]

No [ view of human life ] seems so reasonable as that which regards it as a state of probation. Paley. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Probationary. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Of or pertaining to probation; serving for trial. [ 1913 Webster ]

To consider this life . . . as a probationary state. Paley. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ 1913 Webster ]

1. One who is undergoing probation; one who is on trial; a novice. [ 1913 Webster ]

While yet a young probationer,
And candidate of heaven. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A student in divinity, who, having received certificates of good morals and qualifications from his university, is admitted to several trials by a presbytery, and, on acquitting himself well, is licensed to preach. [ Scot. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

n. The state of being a probationer; novitiate. Locke. [ 1913 Webster ]