power of attorney

noun

Law.

1. a written document given by one person or party to another authorizing the latter to act for the former.

power of attorney

noun

1. legal authority to act for another person in certain specified matters

2. the document conferring such authority

Word History and Origins

Origin of power of attorney¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

Susan Bruland, 57, from Banbury, was a family friend and became trusted as the couple's power of attorney, but she transferred money from their bank accounts for her own personal use.

From BBC

Sarah has power of attorney for both her parents, including for their medical treatment.

From BBC

Last week, the State Department reissued an “extreme danger” travel advisory for Venezuela, urging Americans to leave the country immediately or to “prepare a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.”

From Los Angeles Times

You’ll also need to create a medical power of attorney, which is where you name the person you want to speak for you if you become incapacitated.

From Los Angeles Times

Discussion topics bounce around at the meetings, from practical advice on wills and power of attorney to more emotional reflections on personal experiences.

From BBC

Related Words

• agency 
• authority 
• delegation 
• office