adjective
official
uh-FISH-ul/əˈfɪʃl/
Approved or recognized by the proper authority.
The clerk adds an official seal to the document.
Etymology
Official first described something belonging to a duty or office. The authorized sense developed from the idea that something came from the proper office or officer.
In context
One of the defining features of an official government notice is its legal authority. When a government agency issues a notice, it often carries legal or administrative consequences.
More examples
- She waited for the official announcement.
- The results were not yet official.
- They consulted the official record.
Forms
official
officially adverb — With the authority or recognition of an organization.
Similar words
- authorized
- Given permission or approval by an authority.
- formal
- Follows established procedure, not necessarily officially approved.