American English
/əˈθɔ.ɹɪ.ɾiz/
4 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of authority
Authorities often refers to officials responsible for enforcing laws or dealing with a situation, especially in the phrase the authorities.
People or organizations with official power, especially the power to enforce rules or laws.
Practice out loudPeople or organizations with official power, especially the power to enforce rules or laws.
The authorities are investigating the crime.
Please contact the authorities if you see anything suspicious.
In news reports, the authorities usually means police or government officials.
Experts whose knowledge is respected and trusted in a particular subject.
Several authorities on climate science reviewed the report.
The book quotes authorities from different fields.
The officials responsible for enforcing laws or dealing with a situation.
The authorities are investigating the fire.
A person whose role gives them power to guide, control, or discipline others.
Children often test the limits set by authority figures.
In a position of power or control.
People in authority must listen to different opinions.
The plural changes y to ies: authorities.