Legal Definitions - imprimatur

Imprimatur is a Latin word that means "let it be printed." It has two meanings:

1. A license that is needed to publish a book. In the past, this license was required in England, but now it is only used in countries that censor the press.
2. A general approval or permission to do something.

Example 1: The author had to get an imprimatur from the government before his book could be published in the country.

Explanation: This example illustrates the first meaning of imprimatur. The author needed a license to publish his book in a country that censors the press.

Example 2: The principal gave her imprimatur to the plan to start a recycling program in the school.

Explanation: This example illustrates the second meaning of imprimatur. The principal gave her approval or permission to start a recycling program in the school.