decree
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈkriː/
KK: /dɪˈkri/
intransitive verb
Definition
To officially announce or order something, often in a formal way.
Example
The government decided to decree a new law to improve public safety.
Tense Forms
Past: decreed
Past Participle: decreed
Conversation
Did you hear that the mayor is going to decree new regulations for the park?
Really? I hope it’s something beneficial for everyone.
Yeah, I think they want to improve safety and cleanliness.
That sounds great! It's about time they made some changes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
proclaim
declare
announce
Antonyms
suppress
conceal
withhold
noun
Definition
A formal and official order or decision made by a person in authority, often having the power of law.
Example
The government issued a decree to enforce new regulations on pollution control.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new decree the mayor announced yesterday?
No, I missed it! What does it say?
It’s about reducing traffic in the downtown area.
transitive verb
Definition
To officially order or decide something, often in a formal or authoritative way.
Example
The government decided to decree a new law to improve public safety.
Tense Forms
Past: decreed
Past Participle: decreed
Conversation
Did you hear that the council decided to decree a new park in the neighborhood?
Really? That sounds amazing!
Yeah, it's supposed to be a great space for families and kids.
Root Explanation
Decree → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "crescere" (meaning to grow). The word originally referred to something that is set down or established, often in a formal or authoritative manner.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'set down' ('de-') as an official order or decision — that's what a decree means.
Visually Confused Words
undecree
codecree
degree
decene
decare
undecreed
predecree
dree