authoritative

adjective

au·​thor·​i·​ta·​tive ə-ˈthȯr-ə-ˌtā-tiv 

ȯ-,

-ˈthär-

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

• classic
• classical
• definitive
• magisterial

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

Conley has been sought out by Governor Slaton (a gently authoritative Chris Shyer), who has reopened the investigation at Lucille’s urging only to uncover contradictions and inconsistencies in the case. —Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2025

Another authoritative industry figure who presented at Gem Genève was Rui Galopim de Carvalho, FGA, DGA, author of Gempedia: A Comprehensive Glossary For Gemstones and Gemmology. —Kyle Roderick, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

Others believe Wilcox to be among the most impressive operators at his level, appreciating his unassuming but authoritative manner. —Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 20 June 2025

Taurus is known to be authoritative and stubborn, which is similar to how Hamm takes charge. —Lisa Stardust, People.com, 18 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

authority + -ative

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for authoritative

• accommodative
• accumulative
• adjudicative
• administrative
• agglutinative
• ameliorative
• appreciative
• assimilative
• associative
• collaborative
• cooperative
• deliberative

Kids Definition

authoritative

adjective

au·​thor·​i·​ta·​tive ə-ˈthär-ə-ˌtāt-iv 

ȯ-,

-ˈthȯr-

: having or coming from authority

authoritatively adverb

authoritativeness noun