An
official is someone who holds an office in an organization or government and participates in the exercise of authority,. An elected official is a person who is an official by virtue of an election. Officials may also be appointed
ex officio. Some official positions may be inherited. A person who currently holds an office is referred to as an incumbent. Something "official" refers to something endowed with governmental or other authoritative recognition or mandate, as in official language, official gazette, or official scorer.