cease-and-desist order

[ sees-uhn-di-zist, -sist ]

noun

1. an order by a government agency to a person or corporation to terminate a business practice found by the agency to be illegal or unfair.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cease-and-desist order¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, the Union-Tribune reports, county health officials have been issuing cease-and-desist orders to noncompliant properties and an occasional shutdown order.

From Voice of San Diego

County sheriff’s deputies have issued hundreds of cease-and-desist orders, but cities like Oceanside and El Cajon have openly said they don’t plan to enforce the orders.

From Voice of San Diego

That team is in charge of sending a cease-and-desist order to the business.

From Voice of San Diego

As a result, DeRose sent Jose a cease-and-desist order in September.

From The Daily Beast