Enact
/ɪˈnækt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo make a bill or other proposal law; to decree or ordain by law.
/ɪˈnækt/
To make a law
The parliament enacted the climate change bill.
💡 Simply: Imagine a group of people, like in a school or town council, deciding on new rules. Enacting means they're officially making those rules real, so everyone has to follow them. For example, they might enact a rule about no running in the hallways.
👶 For kids: To make a new rule.
More Examples
The city council enacted a curfew for minors.
The country enacted strict import regulations.
How It's Used
"The government enacted a new law to control pollution."
"Parliament enacted several bills during the legislative session."
To perform or represent a role or play on stage or in film.
/ɪˈnækt/
To act out a role or play
The students enacted a play about the American Revolution.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing pretend or in a play. Enacting means you're acting out a scene or role. For example, you might enact a story about a brave knight.
👶 For kids: To act out a story or play pretend.
More Examples
The actors enacted the scene with passion.
They enacted the proposal, using the materials provided
How It's Used
"The actors enacted the final scene of the play with great emotion."
"The students enacted a historical event during their presentation."
Idioms & expressions
enact a scene
To act out or perform a particular part of a play or movie.
"The actors prepared to enact the emotional final scene."
enact a law
To officially create or pass a law.
"The government moved to enact a new law to address the crisis."
From Middle English *enacten*, from Old English *inæcnan* ('to cause to be done') or from Medieval Latin *inactāre* ('to put into action'), from *in-* ('in, into') + *agere* ('to do, act').
The word 'enact' has been used since the 16th century in its legal sense to describe making laws. In the context of acting, it emerged later, but its usage has grown considerably over time.
Memory tip
Think of 'act' and 'in'. To enact is to bring an act into law.