■ noun ( plural authorities )
1》 the power or right to give orders and enforce obedience.
2》 a person or organization exerting control in a political or administrative sphere.
3》 the power to influence others based on recognized knowledge or expertise.
↘an authoritative person, book, or other source.
Origin
ME: from OFr. autorite , from L. auctoritas , from auctor (see author ).