The British spelling of authorization; the act of giving official permission or approval for something to happen. The power or right to give such permission.
From Medieval Latin 'authorizationem', from 'authorizare' meaning 'to authorize', ultimately from Latin 'auctor' meaning 'originator, promoter'. The '-isation' ending reflects French influence on British English spelling conventions.
This word beautifully illustrates the transatlantic spelling divide, with British English preferring '-isation' endings while American English uses '-ization'. The difference stems from whether the word entered English through French (-isation) or directly from Latin (-ization).
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