n. [ OE. decre, F. décret, fr. L. decretum, neut. decretus, p. p. of decernere to decide; de- + cernere to decide. See Certain, and cf. Decreet, Decretal. ] 1. An order from one having authority, deciding what is to be done by a subordinate; also, a determination by one having power, deciding what is to be done or to take place; edict, law; authoritative ru&unr_;&unr_; decision. “The decrees of Venice.” Sh&unr_;&unr_;&unr_;. [ 1913 Webster ]

There went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. Luke ii. 1. [ 1913 Webster ]

Poor hand, why quiverest thou at this decree? Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Law) (a) A decision, order, or sentence, given in a cause by a court of equity or admiralty. (b) A determination or judgment of an umpire on a case submitted to him. Brande. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Eccl.) An edict or law made by a council for regulating any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of ecclesiastical councils.

Syn. -- Law; regulation; edict; ordinance. See Law. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Decreed p. pr. & vb. n. Decreeing. ] 1. To determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to constitute by edict; to appoint by decree or law; to determine; to order; to ordain; as, a court decrees a restoration of property. [ 1913 Webster ]

Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee. Job xxii. 28. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To ordain by fate. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. i. To make decrees; -- used absolutely. [ 1913 Webster ]

Father eternal! thine is to decree;
Mine, both in heaven and earth to do thy will. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Capable of being decreed. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. One who decrees. J. Goodwin. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ Cf. Decree. ] (Scots Law) The final judgment of the Court of Session, or of an inferior court, by which the question at issue is decided. [ 1913 Webster ]