Meaning & Definition of word "License"

License

/ˈlaɪ.səns/

noun:

  • 1. A permit from an authority to own or use something, do a particular thing, or engage in a trade.
    • Example: He needed a license to operate the heavy machinery.
  • 2. A legal document giving permission to do something.
    • Example: She showed her driver's license to the police officer.
  • 3. The freedom to act or behave as one wishes.
    • Example: The artist felt that he had total license to experiment with his work.

verb:

  • 1. To give someone official permission to do something.
    • Example: The government will license new taxi drivers next month.
  • 2. To authorize or permit the use of something.
    • Example: The company was licensed to sell alcoholic beverages.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

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.

Slang Meanings of license

Meaning: Get your license

Example Sentence: Before you can drive, you need to get your license.

Meaning: License to chill

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