The word "sanctions" refers to measures imposed by countries or organizations to influence or enforce compliance with laws or regulations. These can be legal penalties, trade restrictions, or financial consequences aimed at individuals, corporations, or entire nations. Sanctions are typically used to promote adherence to international norms or to punish behavior deemed unacceptable.
The word "sanction" comes from the Latin word "sanctio," meaning "a decree" or "a penalty." It evolved through Old French before entering the English language around the late Middle Ages. The dual usage of the word (both as a permissive measure and as a punitive action) reflects its historical complexity.