License

/ˈlaɪ.səns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A permit from an authority to own or use something, do a particular thing, or engage in a trade.

He needed a license to operate the heavy machinery.

A legal document giving permission to do something.

She showed her driver's license to the police officer.

The freedom to act or behave as one wishes.

The artist felt that he had total license to experiment with his work.

verb

To give someone official permission to do something.

The government will license new taxi drivers next month.

To authorize or permit the use of something.

The company was licensed to sell alcoholic beverages.

Middle English 'licens', from Old French 'licence', from Latin 'licentia' meaning freedom, liberty.

driver's license

A permit allowing a person to drive a motor vehicle.

business license

A legal document authorizing a business to operate.

license plate

A metal plate attached to a vehicle for identification purposes.

marriage license

A legal certificate issued to a couple to allow them to marry.

music license

Permission to use music in a specified manner.

permit

An official document giving someone authorization to do something.

certification

A formal recognition that someone is qualified to perform a particular job.

registration

The act of registering or the state of being registered.

authorization

The action of giving someone official permission to do something.

Get your license

Before you can drive, you need to get your license.

License to chill

After final exams, I feel like I have a license to chill!