\De*cree"\, n. [OE. decre, F. d['e]cret, fr. L. decretum,
neut. decretus, p. p. of decernere to decide; de- + cernere
to decide. See {Certain}, and cf. {Decreet}, {Decretal}.]
1. An order from one having authority, deciding what is to be
   done by a subordinate; also, a determination by one having
   power, deciding what is to be done or to take place;
   edict, law; authoritative ru?? decision. ``The decrees of
   Venice.'' --Sh???.
         There went out a decree from C[ae]sar Augustus that
         all the world should be taxed.        --Luke ii. 1.
         Poor hand, why quiverest thou at this decree?
                                               --Shak.
2. (Law)
   (a) A decision, order, or sentence, given in a cause by a
       court of equity or admiralty.
   (b) A determination or judgment of an umpire on a case
       submitted to him. --Brande.
3. (Eccl.) An edict or law made by a council for regulating
   any business within their jurisdiction; as, the decrees of
   ecclesiastical councils.
Syn: Law; regulation; edict; ordinance. See {Law}.

\De*cree"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Decreed}; p. pr. & vb.
n. {Decreeing}.]
1. To determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to
   constitute by edict; to appoint by decree or law; to
   determine; to order; to ordain; as, a court decrees a
   restoration of property.
         Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be
         established unto thee.                --Job xxii.
                                               28.
2. To ordain by fate.

\De*cree"\, v. i.
To make decrees; -- used absolutely.
      Father eternal! thine is to decree; Mine, both in
      heaven and earth to do thy will.         --Milton.