ordinance
noun
or·di·nance
| \ ˈȯrd-nən(t)s
, ˈȯr-də-nən(t)s\
, ˈȯr-də-nən(t)s\
Definition of ordinance
1a
: an authoritative decree or direction : order
On that day the king signed three ordinances.
b
: a law set forth by a governmental authority
specifically
: a municipal regulation
A city ordinance forbids construction work to start before 8 a.m.
2
: something ordained or decreed by fate or a deity
Let ordinance come as the gods foresay [=foretell] it.— William Shakespeare
3
: a prescribed usage, practice, or ceremony
observes the ordinance of abstinence during Lent