ETYM From Latin probatus, p. p. of probare to prove. Related to Prove.
1. A judicial certificate saying that a will is genuine and conferring on the executors the power to administer the estate; SYN. probate will.
2. The act of proving that an instrument purporting to be a will was signed and executed in accord with legal requirements.
Proving of a will.
System for the administration of inheritance. Generally the function of probate (sometimes surrogate's) courts, probate determines the validity of wills, and the satisfaction of requirements of inheritance law. In the cases of persons dying without wills (intestacy), probate courts appoint administrators of estates.

1. To establish the legal validity of; as of a will, etc.
2. To put a convicted person on probation by suspending his sentence.