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authority

au·thor·i·ty

authority

 
 
pronunciation:
tho rih ti
features:
Word Combinations (noun), Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
inflections: authorities
definition 1: the right or power to give orders, make decisions, or control people.
Our teacher has all the authority in our classroom.
synonyms:
command, control, power
similar words:
dominion, rule, say, sway
definition 2: (usually plural) people who have this right or power by law.
Even the authorities could not find the robbers.
synonyms:
law
similar words:
agent, cops, officials, police, power
definition 3: a source of expert information or opinion.
Mr. Larson is an authority on old coins.
synonyms:
expert
similar words:
ace, bible, master, reference, specialist
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  knowledge, power