executive order

noun

Examples of executive order in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the first day of his presidency, Trump revoked Joe Biden’s 2023 executive order that established guidelines for generative AI. Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 23 July 2025 President Trump will speak about the plan later on Wednesday, and sign several executive orders related to AI. Saige Miller, NPR, 23 July 2025 The plan and related executive orders are expected to include some familiar tech lobby pitches. Matt O'Brien, Chicago Tribune, 23 July 2025 President Donald Trump signed executive orders in April to relax some of his 25% tariffs on automobiles and auto parts, a significant reversal as the import taxes threatened to hurt domestic manufacturers. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for executive order

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Executive order.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/executive%20order. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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.

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