Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈproʊbeɪt//
KK: /ˈproʊbeɪt/
Definition
Relating to the legal process of proving a will or the court that handles such matters.
Example
The probate court will review the will to ensure it is valid.
Conversation

I heard you are dealing with some probate issues after your uncle passed away.

Yeah, it's been quite overwhelming trying to understand the probate process.

I can only imagine; I’ve read it can be really complicated.

It definitely is, but I'm learning a lot about probate law in the process.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
testamentary
executor
witnessed
Antonyms
intestate
unwitnessed
invalid
Definition
The legal process of confirming that a will is valid and authentic, often involving a court.
Example
After her father passed away, she had to go through probate to ensure his will was valid.
Conversation

Did you hear about the probate process for my grandmother's will?

Yeah, I heard it can be really complicated.

It is! We have to go to court to make sure the will is validated.
Definition
To officially confirm that a will is valid and can be executed according to the deceased person's wishes.
Example
The lawyer helped to probate the will after the person's death.
Tense Forms
Past: probated
Past Participle: probated
Conversation

Did you hear about my aunt passing away?

I'm so sorry to hear that. Are you going to probate her will?

Yeah, I need to make sure everything is settled properly.
Root Explanation
**Probate** → It is formed from "probare" (meaning to prove or test) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a process or action). The word "probate" refers to the legal process of proving the validity of a will.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'prove' — 'probare' means to prove something, and 'probate' is the process of proving a will.
Visually Confused Words
reprobate
prorebate
approbate
prorate
pronate
prolate
parbate
prote