authoritative

adjective

au·​thor·​i·​ta·​tive ə-ˈthȯr-ə-ˌtā-tiv How to pronounce authoritative (audio)
ȯ-, 
-ˈthär-
Synonyms of authoritative
1
: having, marked by, or proceeding from authority
authoritative church doctrines
an authoritative decision
an authoritative manner
2
: possessing recognized or evident authority : clearly accurate or knowledgeable
an authoritative critique
an authoritative source of information
authoritatively adverb
authoritativeness noun

Synonyms of authoritative

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If one dominant, highly authoritative article (like a TechRadar review) appears at the top of the search index, my system treats it as the safest, most reliable anchor. — New Atlas, 4 Sep. 2026 In my experience, the most effective long-term approach is ensuring that more recent authoritative sources discuss your company’s current state. — Victoria Marshall, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2026 The ensemble, though, complete with Bulgaria and Ray-Ban, marked a starting point for Gyllenhaal’s authoritative role over the next several days. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026 There are countless ways in which any person today can seek medical assistance or guidance online, but finding a source that is reliable, authoritative, and transparent can be a tremendous challenge. — William Jones, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for authoritative

Word History

Etymology

authority + -ative

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of authoritative was in 1606

Rhymes for authoritative

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Browse Nearby Words

authoritarianism
authoritative
authority
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Cite this Entry

“Authoritative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authoritative. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

authoritative

adjective
au·​thor·​i·​ta·​tive ə-ˈthär-ə-ˌtāt-iv How to pronounce authoritative (audio)
ȯ-, 
-ˈthȯr-
: having or coming from authority
authoritatively adverb
authoritativeness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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