# one's word is law

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/ones-word-is-law
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

One's requests or orders must be fulfilled.

## Examples

- In this house, my father's word is law.
- The manager expects total obedience from his team because he believes his word is law.
- Within the walls of the ancient fortress, the king's word is law, and no subject dares to question his absolute authority.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.