VocabDictionary

authoritative

/əˈθɔːr.ə.teɪ.tɪv/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having or showing impressive knowledge or power; commanding and likely to be respected or obeyed.

Example Sentences:
  • She provided an authoritative account of the historical events that took place during the revolution.
  • The professor spoke in an authoritative tone that immediately silenced the noisy lecture hall.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “authoritative”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'autorite', which comes from the Old French 'autorité', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'auctoritas' (meaning invention, advice, opinion, influence, or command), rooted in the verb 'augere' meaning 'to increase' or 'to originate'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'author' who has the final say on their book; they are the 'author-itative' source of truth for their story.

Frequently Asked Questions About “authoritative

1. What is the meaning of “authoritative” in English?

In English, authoritative (adjective) is defined as: “Having or showing impressive knowledge or power; commanding and likely to be respected or obeyed.”.

2. How do you use “authoritative” in a sentence?

She provided an authoritative account of the historical events that took place during the revolution.

3. What are English synonyms of “authoritative”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “authoritative”?

Derived from the Middle English 'autorite', which comes from the Old French 'autorité', ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'auctoritas' (meaning invention, advice, opinion, influence, or command), rooted in the verb 'augere' meaning 'to increase' or 'to originate'.