Definitions
1.NounOf a person, institution, or written work, the quality or characteristic of being respected for having good character or knowledge, especially as a source of guidance or an exemplar of proper conduct.
2.NounOne possessing this characteristic.
3.NounThe right or power to act (or direct others to act), based on the belief that the actor is moral, rather than on the actor having or needing some formal power to do so.