ordain

ordain / ordain / ordain

Transitive Verb

past: ordainedpp: ordaineding: ordaining

This term carries a heavy weight of authority, whether ecclesiastical, legal, or divine. When used in a religious context, it describes the formal transition of a person into a sacred office, implying a permanent change in status and a lifelong commitment to a spiritual vocation. In legal or theological contexts, the word suggests an immutable decree. It differs from simple "ordering" or "commanding" by implying that the decision is an official law or a predestined fate that cannot be easily altered or overturned.

Meanings

Transitive Verbordain

[~ someone][~ someone as something]

To officially make someone a priest, minister, or other religious leader through a formal ceremony.

"The bishop will ordain the new priests next Sunday."

Transitive Verbordain

[~ something]

To establish or decree something by an official order or law.

"The constitution ordains that the president serves a four-year term."

Transitive Verbordain

[~ something]

To predetermine or decree something as inevitable, often attributed to a divine power or fate.

"It seemed as though they were ordained to meet again after twenty years."

Last Updated: June 18, 2026•Report an Error