Definition: Having the power to make decisions or give orders that must be followed.

Example: The decretive nature of the judge's ruling left no room for appeal.

Definition: Connected to or having the power of an official order or decision.

Example: The decretory nature of the ruling meant that it had to be followed by all parties involved.

Definition: To make an action or behavior no longer considered a crime, often by changing the law.

Example: The government decided to decriminalize the use of marijuana in the state.

Definition: A conclusion or amount that is taken away from a total, often related to taxes or reasoning.

Example: The tax deduction helped reduce my overall taxable income.

Definition: An action or act, especially one that is notable or significant. It can also refer to a legal document that represents an agreement or transfer of property.

Example: He was recognized for his brave deed during the rescue operation.

Definition: To transfer ownership or rights to someone through a legal document.

Example: The lawyer deeded the property to her clients after the sale was finalized.

Definition: A judge who serves in the legal system of the Isle of Man.

Example: The deemster presided over the court case with great authority.

Definition: To spoil or damage the appearance of something, often by marking or scratching it.

Example: The vandals decided to deface the public statue with graffiti.

Definition: An act of damaging or ruining the appearance of something, often by marking or altering it in a way that makes it less attractive or valuable.

Example: The defacement of the historic monument upset many members of the community.

Definition: A person who damages or destroys the surface of something, often as an act of vandalism.

Example: The defacer was caught spray painting graffiti on the wall.

Definition: To misuse or steal money that has been entrusted to someone, often in a financial context.

Example: The accountant was found to have defalcated a large sum of money from the company.