official

The definition of official is authorized, or is someone who holds a position of authority.

(adjective)

See official in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

of or holding an office, or position of authority
by, from, or with the proper authority; authorized or authoritative: an official request
in a formal or ceremonious manner, often involving persons of authority: an official welcome to the city
formally set or prescribed: the official date of publication
Med., Pharmacy contained in the current pharmacopeia; authorized for use in medicine

Origin: OFr < LL officialis

noun

Related Forms:

See official in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Of or relating to an office or a post of authority: official duties.
Authorized by a proper authority; authoritative: official permission.
Holding office or serving in a public capacity: an official representative.
Characteristic of or befitting a person of authority; formal: an official banquet.
Authorized by or contained in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia or National Formulary. Used of drugs.

noun

One who holds an office or position, especially one who acts in a subordinate capacity for an institution such as a corporation or governmental agency.
Sports A referee or umpire.

Origin:

Origin: From Middle English, ecclesiastical officer

Origin: , from Old French

Origin: , from Latin officiālis, an attendant of an office

Origin: , from officium, duty, service; see Office

Related Forms: