authorities

plural of authority

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