Merriam-Webster's definitions of authority: Merriam-Webster MW authority http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authority Merriam Webster Merriam-Webster https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authority definition “authority” the “escalation of authority” tactic authority authority http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authority Merriam-Webster authority defines it authority Merriam Webster http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authority authority power to influence or command thought, opinion or behavior. MW authority AUTHORITY old friend Webster’s dictionary Merriam-Webster Dictionary Merriam-Webster authority Merriam Websters authority