Definition

Noun: - Ultimate and absolute power to make decisions and settle matters: The highest level of control or command, with the unquestionable right to judge, decide, or rule on issues. This authority is final and not subject to any other power.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The constitution vests supreme authority in the people. (The highest and final governing power belongs to the citizens.)
  • The board of directors has supreme authority over corporate policy. (The board holds the ultimate power to decide on company policy.)
  • In that kingdom, the monarch was the supreme authority. (The king or queen possessed the absolute and final ruling power.)

Advanced Usage

• "to wield supreme authority": to hold and exercise ultimate power.
  • The general wields supreme authority over the military district.
• "the seat of supreme authority": the location or institution where ultimate power resides.
  • The capital city is the seat of supreme authority for the nation.

Variants and Related Words

• Authority (n): The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.
• Sovereignty (n): Supreme power or authority, especially of a state to govern itself.
• Supremacy (n): The state or condition of being superior to all others in authority, power, or status.

Synonyms

• Sovereignty: Supreme power.
• Final arbiter: The ultimate judge or decision-maker.
• Ultimate power: The highest possible level of control.

Related Phrases

• Final say: The ultimate right to make a decision.
  • The editor-in-chief has the final say on all published content.
• Last word: The definitive statement or decision on a matter.
  • On technical specifications, the lead engineer has the last word.

Related Idioms

• The buck stops here: The responsibility for making final decisions rests with this person or office. (Implies acceptance of supreme authority.)
  • As CEO, she made it clear that the buck stopped with her.

Noun

1. someone with the power to settle matters at will
   • she was the final arbiter on all matters of fashion