ɔ:ˈθɔrɪtɪ n. (pl. -ies) 1 a
the power or
right to
enforce obedience. b (often foll. by
for, or to + infin.) delegated power. 2 (esp. in pl.) a
person or
body having authority,
esp.
political or
administrative. 3 a an
influence exerted on
opinion because of recognized
knowledge or
expertise. b
such an influence expressed in a
book,
quotation, etc. (an authority on
vintage cars). c a person
whose opinion is accepted, esp. an
expert in a
subject. 4 the
weight of
evidence. [ME f. OF autorit÷ f. L auctoritas f. auctor: see AUTHOR]