authority
Definitions
The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
A person or organization having power or control in a particular, typically political or administrative, sphere.
The power to influence others, especially because of one's recognized knowledge or expertise.
Examples
She spoke with such authority that everyone in the room immediately fell silent.
The local government has the authority to regulate traffic in the city center.
He is considered a leading authority on the history of ancient civilizations.
Synonyms
Antonyms
powerlessness subservience weakness impotence subordination helplessness inability