Decree
/dɪˈkriː/
Definitions
2 meaningsAn official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority, especially a legal or official document.
/dɪˈkriː/
An official order issued by a legal authority.
The emperor issued a decree forbidding the sale of books.
💡 Simply: Imagine a king makes a very important rule that everyone must follow. That rule is a decree! Like, the decree might say everyone has to wear a crown on Tuesdays.
👶 For kids: A rule made by someone important, like a queen or a president.
More Examples
The government's decree went into effect immediately.
The court's decree declared the marriage null and void.
How It's Used
"The judge issued a decree ordering the company to pay damages."
"The king announced a new decree regarding taxation."
To order or decide something officially, usually by law or authority.
/dɪˈkriː/
To order or decide by decree.
The judge decreed that the couple must divorce.
💡 Simply: To decree something is like the boss, or the government, saying something *must* happen. They're making it a rule by official order. Like when your parents decree no video games after 9 PM.
👶 For kids: To say that something must happen, like the boss saying it's time for work.
More Examples
The king decreed a day of celebration.
The council decreed a new set of environmental regulations.
How It's Used
"The court decreed the dissolution of the partnership."
"The government decreed a state of emergency."
Idioms & expressions
by decree
As a result of an official order.
"The law was changed by decree of the parliament."
decree absolute
A final order of divorce, terminating a marriage.
"After the court proceedings, the couple was granted a decree absolute."
From Old French decret (12th century), from Latin decretum "a decision, decree," past participle of decernere "to decide, determine."
The term "decree" has been used throughout history, especially in legal and royal contexts to signify binding orders and pronouncements. It's roots can be found in Ancient Roman times.
Memory tip
Think of a king's "DEE"-cree - it's what he tells everyone to do!