give (someone or something) the nod

give (someone or something) the nod

To indicate someone or something as one's choice or show one's approval of someone or something. I gave Amanda the nod because she is the most qualified candidate.
See also: give, nod
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

give someone the nod

or

give the nod

INFORMAL
COMMON If someone gives you the nod or gives the nod, they give you permission to do something. Keep him outside till I give you the nod. Then bring him in. The committee will probably give the nod to the idea of a Community-wide strategy for economic growth. Note: You can also say that you get the nod from someone. We'll hold off interviewing Hythe any further until we get the nod from you. Note: You can also say that you are waiting for the nod from someone, meaning that you are waiting for them to give you permission. We're waiting for the nod from the Secretary-General.
See also: give, nod, someone
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

give somebody the ˈnod

(informal) give somebody permission to do something; tell somebody that you are willing or ready for something to happen: Just give me the nod when you’ve decided, and I’ll make all the necessary arrangements.
See also: give, nod, somebody
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

give someone the nod

1. tv. to signal someone by nodding. (Not slang.) I gave Pete the nod, and he started the procedure.
2. tv. to choose someone. (see also get the nod.) The committee gave Frank the nod for the job.
See also: give, nod, someone
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
See also:
  • be replaced by (someone or something)
  • be replaced with (someone or something)
  • be remembered as (something)
  • be remembered as/for something
  • be in (one's) good graces
  • be in somebody's good graces
  • be in someone's good graces
  • a ball and chain
  • ball and chain
  • at (one's) doorstep