There are multiple definitions - click on the translation that matches your context.

autoridade

substantivo

full

authority

noun

Definitions of authority

English

(also: precedent) an important judicial decision or accepted source of information that can be used to help support a case

Mr Popkins referred to a number of respected authorities during his legal arguments.

English

a body with administrative powers and the legal power to enforce the law; a group of people with official responsibility for something

The Park Authority is responsible for maintaining the national parks.

English

the official or legal power given to a person or an institution to do something

The agent had no authority to take out a loan on behalf of the company.