ˈȯ(r)dənən(t)s noun
( -s )
Etymology: French, alteration of Middle French ordenance, literally, act of ordering, arrangement — more at ordinance
1. : disposition of the parts of a composition with regard to one another and the whole : arrangement , structure
there are design and ordonnance in it — C.D.Lewis
2.
[French ( compagnie d' ) ordonnance, literally, ordinance company; from the Ordonnance Royale (Royal Ordinance) of 1437 which created the first standing army of France]
: a company of French men-at-arms
3.
a. : decree , law , order
the ordonnances of France are so unfavorable to strangers — Tobias Smollett
b. : an orderly compilation of a body of law on a particular subject (as of prizes and captures at sea)