Webster's English Dictionary

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decree

1. de.cree \di-'kre-\ n [ME, fr. MF decre`, fr. L decretum, fr. neut. of 
   decretus, p]p. of decernere to decide, fr. de- + cernere to sift, decide 1: 
   an order usu. having the force of law  2a: a religious ordinance enacted by 
   council or titular head  2b: a foreordaining will  3a: a judicial decision 
   of the Roman emperor  3b1: a decision or sentence given in a cause by a 
   court  3b2: JUDGMENT 
2. decree \di-'kre--*r\ vb or de.creed;  or de.cree.ing 1: to command or 
   enjoin by decree {~ an amnesty}  2: to determine or order judicially {a 
   punishment}  : ORDAIN  - de.cre.er n