executive order

noun

(often initial capital letters)

1. an order having the force of law issued by the president of the U.S. to the army, navy, or other part of the executive branch of the government.

Word History and Origins

Origin of executive order¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

"Finally," Japan's top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, said in Japanese as he reposted a White House announcement about the executive order.

From BBC

The BBC has seen the text of the executive order, which says: "The name 'Department of War' conveys a stronger message of readiness and resolve compared to 'Department of Defense,' which emphasizes only defensive capabilities."

From BBC

He will sign an executive order on Friday for the Department of Defense to use the new name as a secondary title and for Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to be known as Secretary of War.

From BBC

“This is an administration that has already signed an executive order that said, ‘Unleash the police.’

From Salon

Let’s hope he doesn’t get a hankering for a Best Actor Oscar, or he might sign an executive order mandating an “emergency” tax of $100 per movie ticket.

From Salon