ordinance

noun

ˈȯr-də-nən(t)s How to pronounce ordinance (audio)
Definition of ordinancenext
as in law
a rule of conduct or action laid down by a governing authority and especially a legislature a local ordinance forbids all street parking during snowstorms

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word ordinance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of ordinance are canon, law, precept, regulation, rule, and statute. While all these words mean "a principle governing action or procedure," ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

When can canon be used instead of ordinance?

The words canon and ordinance can be used in similar contexts, but canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

In what contexts can law take the place of ordinance?

The meanings of law and ordinance largely overlap; however, law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

When is precept a more appropriate choice than ordinance?

While in some cases nearly identical to ordinance, precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

Where would regulation be a reasonable alternative to ordinance?

While the synonyms regulation and ordinance are close in meaning, regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

When might rule be a better fit than ordinance?

The synonyms rule and ordinance are sometimes interchangeable, but rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

When could statute be used to replace ordinance?

The words statute and ordinance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ordinance But in the wake of the AIDS epidemic, and the disappearance of many urban cruising grounds in response to health ordinances and gentrification, an in-person practice shifted online. —Emily Witt, New Yorker, 24 July 2025 Residents are reminded that city ordinance states pets are not to be outside unsupervised when the temperature is over 90 degrees or a heat advisory is in effect. —Cheryl V. Jackson, IndyStar, 24 July 2025 On July 8, the City Council unanimously approved updates to the city’s multifamily ordinance outlining property inspections and property registration requirements. —Elizabeth Campbell, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2025 City leaders are considering changes to the city's curfew ordinance to further combat crime. —David Ferrara, The Enquirer, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for ordinance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ordinance
  1. law
  2. act
  3. bill
  4. amendment
  5. statute
  6. legislation
Noun
  • Since the building was built in 1921, it is not required by state law to have a sprinkler system.
    — Drake Bentley, jsonline.com, 15 July 2025
  • The Tennessee Court of Appeals struck a blow against the city on June 5 by ruling 2-1 that a state law that caps metropolitan councils at 20 members is constitutional.
    — Evan Mealins, The Tennessean, 15 July 2025
Definition of law
Noun
  • The Oak Ridge Boys, Reba McEntire, Jeannie C. Riley, Connie Smith and the duo of Charlie Louvin and Melba Montgomery were among the acts who cut her songs.
    — Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 22 July 2025
  • In a world quick to shame and slow to forgive, perhaps the most radical leadership act is to model a different way: one that acknowledges our shared humanity, holds space for growth and redemption, and focuses more energy on our own character development than on judging others’ character deficits.
    — Margie Warrell, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Definition of act
Noun
  • But those who look to move into another repayment plan will likely face a much larger monthly bill.
    — Annie Nova, CNBC, 19 July 2025
  • During a March 18 House vote on a Republican bill to lower Michigan's income tax rate from 4.25% to 4.05%, Herzberg joined most of his Democratic colleagues to oppose the legislation.
    — Clara Hendrickson, Freep.com, 19 July 2025
Definition of bill
Noun
  • That goal, however, is complicated by a constitutional amendment that requires an independent commission to lead the process.
    — Leah Askarinam, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2025
  • Like the League of Women Voters, Protect AR Rights is also proposing a constitutional amendment aiming to protect Arkansans' right to petition.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 24 July 2025
Definition of amendment
Noun
  • But the politics of amending statutes is complicated and uncertain.
    — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 21 July 2025
  • First, opponents argued that the rule was unlawful and that Congress would need to amend the statute to implement the changes proposed by DHS in its rule.
    — Stuart Anderson, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Definition of statute
Noun
  • While the legislation is U.S.-centric, its influence is likely to extend far beyond.
    — Geoff Ira, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Passed earlier this month, the legislation extends Trump's 2017 tax cuts and includes additional provisions that impact deductions, overtime pay, charitable giving, Medicaid and more.
    — Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 15 July 2025
Definition of legislation

Browse Nearby Words

orders
ordinance
ordinances
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Cite this Entry

“Ordinance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ordinance. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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