decree
UK: dɪˈkriː | US: dɪˈkriː
n. an official order issued by a legal authority
vt. to order or command something officially
The word "decree" originates from the Latin decretum, meaning "a decision or judgment," derived from decernere ("to decide"). The prefix de- implies "down" (finality), while cernere means "to sift" or "separate," reflecting the act of making a definitive ruling. Over time, it evolved through Old French (decret) into Middle English, retaining its sense of authoritative command.
The king issued a decree banning trade with neighboring countries.
The court decreed that the law was unconstitutional.
By presidential decree, the new policy took immediate effect.
The council decreed a day of mourning for the fallen soldiers.
Religious decrees often influence cultural practices.