Probation \Pro*ba"tion\, n. [L. probatio, fr. probare to try, examine, prove: cf. F. probation. See Prove.]

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

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

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.

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

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)