Weird words

[MoreCoffee]

Consider these two definitions of the word sanction

noun

1. a threatened penalty for disobeying a law or rule.
"a range of sanctions aimed at deterring insider abuse"
2. official permission or approval for an action.
"he appealed to the bishop for his sanction"​

verb

1. give official permission or approval for (an action).
"the scheme was sanctioned by the court"
2. impose a sanction or penalty on.
"foreigners in France illegally should be sent home, their employers sanctioned and border controls tightened up"​

Isn't it odd for one word to have two opposite meanings.

 

[Rens]

Today I learned that grace means also thanks as in say grace and mercy is also thanks: merci in French