The Constitution
ratification
Final approval that gives a measure legal force: states ratify constitutional amendments (3/4 required); the Senate consents to treaties (2/3).
In full
For constitutional amendments, ratification is the states' half of Article V: three-quarters (38 of 50) must approve, through their legislatures or conventions as Congress directs. The President plays no part. For treaties, 'ratification' is technically the President's act, taken only after the Senate's two-thirds consent.
Also written as: ratify, ratified
Where to go next
Keep going
Browse every term in the glossary, or see the vocabulary in motion in the How government works walkthroughs.
A plain-language explanation for civic education, not legal advice. When in doubt, the official source named above controls.