The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. The manager has the authority to approve the budget.
A person or organization having power or control in a particular, typically political or administrative, sphere. The local authorities were called to handle the situation.
The confidence resulting from personal expertise or experience. She spoke with authority on the subject of ancient history.
A book or other source able to supply reliable information or evidence. The textbook is considered an authority on the topic of physics.
Official permission or sanction; authorization. They acted with the authority of the court.
A person who is acknowledged as an expert on a particular subject. Dr. Kim is an authority on tropical diseases.