Meaning & Definition
verb
To give official permission or approval to do something.
The manager will authorize the project budget after reviewing the proposal.
To empower someone to act on behalf of another.
The board authorized the CEO to negotiate the merger agreement.
To validate or confirm an action or request.
You need to authorize the payment before it can be processed.
To grant authority to a person or entity.
The organization authorized the committee to make decisions on the funding.
Etymology
From Latin 'auctorizare', from 'auctor' meaning 'author, originator'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
authorize access:
To grant permission for someone to enter or use a system or place.
authorized personnel only:
A phrase indicating that only those who have permission can enter a specific area.
authorize payment:
To permit the transaction of a payment to proceed.
Slang Meanings
To give the green light.
He finally authorized the project; we can start now!
To sign off on something.
She needs to authorize the plans before we can move forward.