Definition of AUTHORITATIVE (original) (raw)
1
: having, marked by, or proceeding from authority
authoritative church doctrines
an authoritative decision
2
: possessing recognized or evident authority : clearly accurate or knowledgeable
an authoritative critique
an authoritative source of information
Synonyms
Examples of authoritative in a Sentence
The book is an authoritative guide to the city's restaurants. His manner is polite but authoritative. She addressed the group with an authoritative voice.
Recent Examples on the Web Critics say the plan is authoritative, anti-democratic and would undermine the Constitution and rule of law. —
Jeffrey Schweers, Orlando Sentinel, 9 July 2024 The library’s digital archives host an abundance of rare, original and authoritative information. —Rashi Shrivastava, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024 It's go to the authoritative source in your jurisdiction, which tends to be your secretary of state, your state election director or your local election officials. —CBS News, 15 Sep. 2024 Courtesy of Jodi Rowley/Bradshaw Rowley There are already some 150,000 species on the Australian National Species List, which is the country’s authoritative list of plants, animals and other organisms. —Julie Depenbrock, NPR, 13 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for authoritative 
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'authoritative.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of authoritative was in 1606
Dictionary Entries Near authoritative
Cite this Entry
“Authoritative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authoritative. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
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Last Updated: 27 Sep 2024 - Updated example sentences
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