Vocabulary Spotlight
Decree
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: An official order issued by a legal authority.
“The king issued a decree banning all forms of protest within the city.”
Pronunciation
[dih-kree]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Edict
Mandate
Proclamation
Command
Antonyms
Request
Proposal
Appeal
Petition
Related Words
Decreeing (verb)
Word Origin
The word “decree” originated from the Latin “decretum,” meaning a decision or ordinance. The term evolved through Old French before entering Middle English in the 14th century, referring to an authoritative command.
Word Family
Noun: Decree – An authoritative order.
Verb: Decreed – To order or decide officially.
Mnemonics
Think of “decree” as “decide with authority.” A decree is a final decision or command from an authority.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In law, a decree refers to a final judgment or order, such as a divorce decree issued by a court.
Government
Governments issue decrees to enforce policies or respond to emergencies, often without legislative input.
Religion
In some religious contexts, decrees are official orders or rulings issued by a religious authority, such as a papal decree in the Catholic Church.
In Context
Decrees are common in many fields where a strong central authority is required. In government, they allow swift policy changes. In religion, they guide followers with authoritative instructions.