authoritative

Etymology

From authorit(y) +‎ -ative.

Pronunciation

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ɔːˈθɒɹɪtətɪv/

• Audio (Southern England):

  (file)

  • (proscribed) IPA^(key): /ɔːˈθɒɹɪtɪv/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /əˈθɔɹɪˌteɪtɪv/, /əˈθɑɹɪˌteɪtɪv/, /ɔ-/
  • (proscribed) IPA^(key): /əˈθɔɹɪtɪv/, /əˈθɑɹɪtɪv/, /ɔ-/

Adjective

authoritative (comparative more authoritative, superlative most authoritative)

1. Arising or originating from a figure of authority

   Synonyms: formal, proper

   The authoritative rules in this school come not from the headmaster but from the aged matron.

2. Highly accurate or definitive; treated or worthy of treatment as a scholarly authority

   Synonyms: definitive, of record, precise

   This book is the world's most authoritative guide to insect breeding habits.

3. Having a commanding style.

   Synonyms: grave, magisterial, masterful, oracular, sterling

   He instructed us in that booming, authoritative voice of his.

   • 2013 June 29, Leo Montada, “Coping with Life Stress”, in Herman Steensma, Riël Vermunt, editors, Social Justice in Human Relations Volume 2: Societal and Psychological Consequences of Justice and Injustice‎, Springer Science & Business Media, →ISBN, page 26:

     The fourth model is called the enlightment model: Actors are seen to be responsible for problems but unable or unwilling to provide solutions. They are believed to need discipline provided by authoritative guidance. The Alcoholic Anonymous^[sic] groups are considered prototypical for this model.