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// decision.-a decision, order, or sentence, given in a cause by a court of equity or admiralty.-a determination or judgment of an umpire on a case submitted to him.-an edict or law made by a council for regulating any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of ecclesiastical councils.-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.-to ordain by fate.-to make decrees; -- used absolutely.