Unauthorized
/ʌnˈɔːθəraɪzd/
Definitions
Not having official permission or approval; illegal or illicit.
/ʌnˈɔːθəraɪzd/
Not officially approved or permitted
The unauthorized release of the documents caused a scandal.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to use a credit card, but the bank hasn't said it's okay. That's unauthorized—not allowed!
👶 For kids: When something isn't allowed or you don't have permission to do it.
More Examples
Using the company's computers for personal use is unauthorized.
The soldiers were punished for the unauthorized use of firearms.
How It's Used
"Unauthorized access to a computer system is a serious crime."
"The company discovered several unauthorized transactions."
Synonyms
From 'un-' (not) + 'authorized,' derived from 'authority,' from Latin 'auctoritas' (power, influence). The word entered English in the late 18th century, reflecting legal and administrative contexts.
The word 'unauthorized' became increasingly prevalent in legal and regulatory contexts during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially concerning property rights and public safety.
Memory tip
Think of a border crossing where you don't have a passport. You are unauthorized to enter.