executive order

noun

Examples of executive order in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Ten days later, then Mayor Eric Garcetti issued an executive order declaring shelter a basic need. Doug Smith, Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2024 That followed an executive order from Gov. Gavin Newsom calling on the commissioner to take quick action. Stephen Hobbs, Sacramento Bee, 16 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for executive order 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'executive order.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of executive order was in 1862

Dictionary Entries Near executive order

Cite this Entry

“Executive order.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/executive%20order. Accessed 20 May. 2024.

Legal Definition

executive order

noun
: an order issued by a government's executive on the basis of authority specifically granted to the executive branch (as by the U.S. Constitution or a congressional act)
the National Security Agency was created by an executive order
compare proclamation, statute

Note: An executive order from the president does not have the force of law until it is printed in the Federal Register.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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