# commandment

/kəˈmændmənt/ (US) · /kəmˈɑːndmənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/commandment
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

an important rule that you must follow, often coming from a god or a powerful leader. People sometimes use this word for their own strict personal rules.

For teachers: a divine or authoritative rule of conduct, specifically one of the ten biblical laws. Often used metaphorically to describe a fundamental principle that must be obeyed.

## Examples

- The first commandment is the most important one.
- In this household, the first commandment is that everyone must take their shoes off at the door.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the plural when referring to a set of established rules.

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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.