Authority: meaning, definitions and examples

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authority

[ əˈθɔːrɪti ]

^{Context #1}

in control

The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.

Synonyms

control, jurisdiction, power

Examples of usage

He has the authority to issue fines for illegal parking.
The manager has the authority to hire and fire employees.
The government has the authority to impose new laws.

^{Context #2}

expert

A person with extensive knowledge or expertise in a particular area.

Synonyms

expert, scholar, specialist

Examples of usage

She is an authority on Renaissance art.
The professor is considered an authority in the field of quantum physics.
The author is recognized as an authority on the history of the Middle Ages.

Translations

Translations of the word "authority" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autoridade

🇮🇳 अधिकार

🇩🇪 Autorität

🇮🇩 otoritas

🇺🇦 авторитет

🇵🇱 autorytet

🇯🇵 権威 (けんい)

🇫🇷 autorité

🇪🇸 autoridad

🇹🇷 yetki

🇰🇷 권위

🇸🇦 سلطة

🇨🇿 autorita

🇸🇰 autorita

🇨🇳 权威 (quánwēi)

🇸🇮 avtoriteta

🇮🇸 vald

🇰🇿 билік

🇬🇪 ხელისუფლება

🇦🇿 səlahiyyət

🇲🇽 autoridad

Word origin

The word 'authority' originates from the Latin word 'auctoritas', which is derived from 'auctor', meaning 'originator' or 'creator'. In ancient Rome, 'auctoritas' referred to the general level of prestige a person had in society, often linked to their wealth, power, or knowledge. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the concept of the right to command or make decisions. The English word 'authority' entered the language in the 14th century, retaining its fundamental meaning of power or control.