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 of authoritative

• definitive
• classical
• accurate
• comprehensive
• classic
• magisterial
• official

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

That’s the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders — the authoritative handbook of mental disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association and used by mental health professionals in the United States. — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 18 Sep. 2026

Muck Rack notes that PR and communications can influence generative engine optimization because AI systems draw on authoritative third-party sources when assembling answers. — Andrey Insarov, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2026

No better is that exemplified than on Play Boy, an album that presents itself as an open book reflection on life lived unapologetically, on the edge, and with a constant questioning of any authoritative figure standing in its way. — Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026

There was never an intention to be like a voice for anyone or to be an authoritative tastemaker. — Thomas Smith, Billboard, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

authority + -ative

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for authoritative

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

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