figure of authority

noun phrase

: a person who has authority over another person : a person who has the power to give orders or make decisions
A child needs a figure of authority in his or her life.

Examples of figure of authority in a Sentence

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The stereotypical permissive parents are the ones who see themselves as their children's friend, and not a figure of authority. Marisa Lascala, Good Housekeeping, 28 June 2023

Dictionary Entries Near figure of authority

Cite this Entry

“Figure of authority.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/figure%20of%20authority. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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