Decree

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /dɪˈkɹiː/

Origin

From Old French decré (French décret), from Latin dēcrētum.

Full definition of decree

Noun

1. An edict or law.
• Bible, Luke ii. 1There went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
• ShakespearePoor hand, why quiverest thou at this decree?
2. (legal) The judicial decision in a litigated cause rendered by a court of equity.
3. (legal) The determination of a cause in a court of admiralty or court of probate.

Usage notes

It is accurate to use the word judgment for a decision of a court of law, and decree from a court of equity, although the former term now includes both.

Derived terms

• consent decree
• decree nisi
• final decree
• interlocutory decree

Verb

1. To command by a decree.A court decrees a restoration of property.
• Bible, Job xxii. 28Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee.

Anagrams

• recede