Official

Definition

Official is an adjective that describes something authorized or recognized by an authority or organization. As a noun, it refers to a person holding a position of authority in an organization or government.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈfɪʃ.əl/
• Respelling: uh-FISH-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈfɪʃ.əl/
• Respelling: uh-FISH-uhl

Etymology

The word "official" originates from the Latin "officialis," which derives from "officium," meaning "duty" or "service." It entered Middle English via Old French, where it was used to describe roles and matters pertaining to authority or office.

Derivatives

• Officially (adverb)
• Officialdom (noun)
• Unofficial (adjective)
• Officialese (noun, informal)
• Officialness (noun)

Synonyms

• Authorized
• Formal
• Certified

Antonyms

• Unofficial
• Informal
• Unauthorized

Usage

The term "official" is commonly used in contexts relating to authority, regulations, or formal recognition. As an adjective: "The statement is an official declaration." As a noun: "He works as a government official."

Related Terms

• Authority: The power or right to make decisions and enforce rules.
• Bureaucracy: A system of government or organization involving official procedures.
• Certification: A formal process of verifying authenticity or compliance.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Authorized or formal: Describes something approved or sanctioned by an authority.
  • Example: "The meeting agenda was made official yesterday."
• Pertaining to an office or position: Refers to duties, actions, or documents related to a position of authority.
  • Example: "The official documents must be signed by the director."

Noun

• A person in a position of authority: Refers to an individual responsible for carrying out specific duties within an organization or government.
  • Example: "The election official supervised the voting process."