power of attorney
Americannoun
noun
-
legal authority to act for another person in certain specified matters
-
the document conferring such authority
Etymology
Origin of power of attorney
First recorded in 1740–50
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.
State law varies in what authority is permitted under a power of attorney.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026
A healthcare power of attorney allows you to appoint a person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to communicate your decisions yourself.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026
A durable power of attorney names a trusted person to make financial decisions on your behalf.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026
A durable power of attorney, which remains in effect after the principal becomes incapacitated, may access the client’s bank account.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 25, 2026
I hoped Mom would be in charge of whatever the power of attorney thing was.
From "Lawn Boy Returns" by Gary Paulsen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
