# edict

/ˈidɪkt/ (US) · /ˈiːdɪkt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

an official order or command given by someone in power. It is usually a rule that everyone must follow immediately.

For teachers: an official proclamation or decree issued by an authority. Often carries the weight of law and is issued without the consent of a legislative body.

## Examples

- The king issued an edict to raise taxes.
- The government issued an emergency edict banning all public gatherings during the health crisis.
- Historians argue that the emperor's religious edict was less about personal faith and more about consolidating political power across the fragmented provinces.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verbs 'issue', 'proclaim', or 'rescind'.

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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.