Meaning

1. Power or right to make or enforce rules or give orders; or a position having such power or right.
2. Persons, regarded collectively, who occupy official positions of power; police or law enforcement.
3. A reliable, definitive source of information on a subject.
4. Status as a trustworthy source of information, reputation for mastery or expertise; or claim to such status or reputation.
5. Official permission; authorisation to act in some capacity on behalf of a ruling entity.
6. A government-owned agency that runs a revenue-generating activity for public benefit.