authorized
AmericanOther Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of authorized
Explanation
Something that's authorized is officially approved. If the principal of your school has given you the go-ahead to throw a Hawaiian-themed party, you can call it an authorized luau. The adjective authorized comes from the verb authorize, which means "give formal approval or sanction to." Both words go back to the Latin root auctor, "authority." So when an authority grants her approval or permission to do something, it becomes authorized. You'll need an authorized passport if you want to travel to a foreign country.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Food and Drug Administration hasn’t authorized any vapes from Geek Bar, a Chinese manufacturer, for sale in the U.S.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 14, 2026
Credit cards come with fraud protection for users, but banks don’t view an authorized charge the same way.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 13, 2026
After the Civil War, Congress passed an enforcement law that authorized suits against state and local officials acting under color of law who violated constitutional rights.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 9, 2026
The statement noted that federal agents formed a line blocking the ambulance entrance — which was neither authorized nor requested by the hospital.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 7, 2026
A third national flag, nicknamed the Blood- Stained Banner, was authorized on March 4, 1865.
From "Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever" by Bill O'Reilly
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