In local government, a single-tier authority which replaces a two-tier structure. For example, in England, county councils are abolished and their responsibilities are transferred to boroughs and local government districts (but this only applies to some counties, not all). In some cases complete counties, such as Cornwall and Northumberland, are now unitary authorities without any subdivision into local government districts.

plural of unitary authority

(Australia, New Zealand, UK, law) A body set up by law which is authorised to enforce legislation on behalf of the relevant country or state.

plural of atomic authorization

That author of a joint paper who is considered by the publisher to have submitted it for publication.

plural of corresponding author

A government organization responsible for collecting taxes.

plural of statutory authority

(library science) The organization of bibliographic information by using a single distinct spelling of a name (heading) or a numeric identifier for each topic or agent.

Someone who is in a position of authority.