power of attorney

noun

Law.

1. a written document given by one person or party to another authorizing the latter to act for the former.

power of attorney

noun

1. legal authority to act for another person in certain specified matters

2. the document conferring such authority

Word History and Origins

Origin of power of attorney¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Related Words

• agency 
• authority 
• delegation 
• office