I. di-ˈkrē noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French decré, from Latin decretum, from neuter of decretus, past participle of decernere to decide, from de- + cernere to sift, decide — more at certain
Date: 14th century
1. : an order usually having the force of law
2.
a. : a religious ordinance enacted by council or titular head
b. : a foreordaining will
3.
a. : a judicial decision of the Roman emperor
b. : a judicial decision especially in an equity or probate court
II. verb
( de·creed ; de·cree·ing )
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1. : to command or enjoin by or as if by decree
decree an amnesty
2. : to determine or order judicially
decree a punishment
intransitive verb
: ordain
• de·cre·er -ˈkrē-ər noun