Decree

n. [Lat. decretum, from decernere, to decide; Fr. & Pr. decret, Sp., Pg., & It. decreto.]

1Sense 1. An order from one having authority, deciding what is to be done by a subordinate; also, a determination by one having power, deciding what is to take place or occur; edict; law; rule. “The decrees of Venice.” Shak.

There went out a decree from Cesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. Luke ii. 1.

2Sense 2. A special rule, order, or decision, touching a particular case; an established law. “A decree for the rain.” Job xxviii. 26.

3Sense 3. (Law.) (a.) A decision, order, or sentence given in a cause by a court of equity or admiralty. (b.) A determination or judgment of an umpire on a case submitted to him; an edict. Brande.

4Sense 4. (Eccl.) An edict or law made by a council for regulating any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of ecclesiastical councils.

5Sense 5. (Script.) The purpose of God concerning future events.

Synonyms—Law; statute; regulation; edict. See LAW.

v. t. [imp. & p. p. DECREED; p. pr. & vb. n. DECREEING.] To determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to determine, decide on; to order, to appoint; to set or constitute; as, a court decrees a restoration of property.

Thou shalt decree a thing, and it shall be established. Job xxii. 28.