The noun authorization has 4 senses (first 1 from tagged texts)
1. (5) mandate, authorization, authorisation -- (a document giving an official instruction or command)
2. authority, authorization, authorisation, potency, dominance, say-so -- (the power or right to give orders or make decisions; "he has the authority to issue warrants"; "deputies are given authorization to make arrests"; "a place of potency in the state")
3. authority, authorization, authorisation, sanction -- (official permission or approval; "authority for the program was renewed several times")
4. authorization, authorisation, empowerment -- (the act of conferring legality or sanction or formal warrant)