n.
Pronunciation: di- ' kr ē
Function: 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