What is the process called for formally approving amendments to the Constitution?

The process of formally approving amendments to the Constitution is referred to as ratification. This procedure is outlined in Article V of the Constitution, which specifies that an amendment must be proposed by either a two-thirds vote from both houses of Congress or by a convention called by two-thirds of the state legislatures. Following this proposal, the amendment must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states to become part of the Constitution. This ensures a broad consensus among states before any changes are made, reflecting the foundational principle of federalism.

Other terms in the options refer to different concepts: legislation typically pertains to the process of making laws, verification does not serve a specific role in constitutional amendments, and acquiescence implies passive acceptance rather than an active process of approval like ratification requires.