Meaning of the word licence in English

What does licence mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

licence

US /ˈlaɪ.səns/

UK /ˈlaɪ.səns/

a permit from an authority to own or use something, do a particular thing, or carry on a trade (British English spelling)

Example:

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You need a valid driving licence to operate a vehicle.

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The restaurant operates under a special food and beverage licence.

Synonym:

permit authorization certificate warrant sanction

freedom to act however one wishes (British English spelling)

Example:

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The artist took poetic licence with the historical facts.

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His rude comments were an example of excessive licence.

Synonym:

freedom liberty latitude discretion autonomy

grant a licence to (British English spelling)

Example:

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The council decided to licence the new street performers.

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The software is licenced for use on up to five computers.

Synonym:

authorize permit allow sanction approve

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Related Word:

driving licence