The authoritative definition is defined on then WorldNet online dictionary (www.dict.org/bin/Dict) as "a definition provided by an absolute ruler or absolute rule; having absolute sovereignty." This definition given captures the essence of how an authoritarian definition is provided, but lacks the implications of the phrase though. The authoritarian definition is a vague judgment that is handed down by a higher authority and is merely accepted to be truth because of that person's status. This status may be one of reputability, intelligence, and expertise, but never provides one with truth.
             Truth is the purpose and motive for Socrates' existence. Socrates is faced with an authoritarian definition during Euthyphro's definition of piety. "The pious is what all the Gods love and the opposite is what they hate" (handout #2 on the Euthyphro). In a search for the truth and essence piety, Socrates is given a definition of piety that merely passes off the act of defining piety to the Gods. Euthyphro never truly provides Socrates with a concrete definition of piety and what it means to be pious. He merely tells Socrates that pious acts please the Gods. This statement is true, but never provides a clear explanation of what pleases the Gods. This Euthyphro leaves up to the God's themselves, and therefore he leaves the act of defining piety to the most authoritative beings in existence, the Gods.
             Humanity though, is provided with no basic understanding of the term piety. All they know of is one effect of piety. The fact that it is a thing that pleases the Gods is co-extensive with the definition of piety. "...where there is piety there is also justice, but where there is justice is there is not always piety." (Plato, Five Dialogues pg. 18) meaning that they have similar parts, but do not have equal definitions, they are merely similar. An act of piety always has an element ...