1. an official document or permit that gives permission to do something or to own something
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is 'license'
2. freedom or permission to do something, especially something that might otherwise be forbidden

1. to give official permission or a licence to someone or something
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is 'license'

Examples

• You need a driver's licence to operate a vehicle on public roads.
• The restaurant obtained a licence to serve alcohol.
• The government will licence new businesses that meet safety standards.
• Poets often take licence with grammar to create special effects.
• She renewed her professional licence before it expired.
• The company was licensed to manufacture pharmaceuticals.
• He spoke with poetic licence, exaggerating some details for effect.