authority figure

noun

: a person who has authority over another person
A child needs an authority figure in his or her life.

Examples of authority figure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This could look like an unexpected debate with a friend, a tricky discussion with someone in the workplace, or perhaps an authority figure of sorts. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Nov. 2024 For instance, a job promotion, new competitive job offer, award, compliment from an authority figure or lucrative and prestigious client could be here for you. Kyle Thomas, People.com, 13 Oct. 2024 Solutions that are handed down to both parties from an authority figure, with little or no input from those directly involved, rarely go down well. Mark C. Perna, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024 Johnson’s career journey from the avatar of iconoclastic ’80s cool to an avuncular authority figure in a privileged world—from a speed boat to luxury liner—could serve as a metaphor for the evolution of a certain segment of American culture over the last 40 years. J. George Gorant, Robb Report, 26 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for authority figure 

Dictionary Entries Near authority figure

Cite this Entry

“Authority figure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authority%20figure. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!