AUTHORITY - Definition & Meaning for Kids
Meaning 1
Part of speech: Noun
the power or right to give orders or make decisions
Example: he has the authority to issue warrants; deputies are given authorization to make arrests; a place of potency in the state
Categories: Control
Meaning 2
Part of speech: Noun
(usually plural) persons who exercise (administrative) control over others
Example: the authorities have issued a curfew
Categories: Person, Individual, Someone, Somebody, Mortal, Soul
Meaning 3
Part of speech: Noun
an expert whose views are taken as definitive
Example: he is an authority on corporate law
Categories: Expert
Meaning 4
Part of speech: Noun
official permission or approval
Example: authority for the program was renewed several times
Categories: Permission
Meaning 5
Part of speech: Noun
an authoritative written work
Example: this book is the final authority on the life of Milton
Categories: Book
Synonyms
Potency, Dominance, Confidence, Self-confidence, Office
🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)
The word "authority" comes from Old French auctorité, which comes from Middle English auctorite.
🔗 Related Words
author – A related word in the same word family.
🧩 Fun Fact
Anglo-Norman French was a unique dialect that developed in England after the Norman invasion.