Meaning & Definition of Ordain in English

1. Order by virtue of superior authority

• Decree

• "The king ordained the persecution and expulsion of the jews"

• "The legislature enacted this law in 1985"

2. Appoint to a clerical posts

• "He was ordained in the church"

3. Invest with ministerial or priestly authority

• "The minister was ordained only last month"

4. Issue an order