mandate

UK: ˈmændeɪt | US: ˈmændeɪt

Definition
  1. n. an official order or authorization to act in a particular way

  2. n. the authority granted to a government or official by election or law

  3. vt. to assign or require something as an official instruction

Structure
mand <order>ate <verb/noun suffix>
Etymology

mandate = mand<order> + ate<verb/noun suffix>

  • mand (from Latin mandare, meaning "to order" or "to entrust")
  • ate (a suffix forming nouns or verbs, often indicating action or result)

Etymology Origin:
The word "mandate" traces back to Latin mandatum, meaning "a thing commanded," derived from mandare ("to order"). The root mand- reflects authority or instruction, while -ate transforms it into a noun or verb. Historically, it described formal commands (e.g., papal mandates). Over time, it broadened to include democratic authority (e.g., electoral mandates).

Examples
  1. The government received a clear mandate to reform healthcare.

  2. The UN mandate authorized peacekeeping troops in the region.

  3. The judge mandated community service for the offender.

  4. The policy was implemented under federal mandate.

  5. A strong public mandate supported the new tax law.