noun (n)

• a document giving an official instruction or command(noun.communication)

  Synonym:
  authorization, mandate
  

  source: wordnet30
• the power or right to give orders or make decisions(noun.attribute)

  Synonym:
  authority, authorization, dominance, potency, say-so
  

  source: wordnet30
• official permission or approval(noun.attribute)

  Synonym:
  authority, authorization, sanction
  

  source: wordnet30
• the act of conferring legality or sanction or formal warrant(noun.act)

  Synonym:
  authorization, empowerment
  

  source: wordnet30