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cease-and-desist order

American  
[sees-uhn-di-zist, -sist] / ˈsis ən dɪˈzɪst, -ˈsɪst /

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.


Etymology

Origin of cease-and-desist order

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When threats didn’t work, the commission in 2024 slapped Levy with a cease-and-desist order, which started the process of full-blown enforcement.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 16, 2026

The bank also agreed to a cease-and-desist order from the Federal Reserve in 2024, which it characterized as similar to actions taken against others in the industry and said would not affect its business.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

The July 31 filing threatens the plan, operated by the state’s licensed home insurers, with a cease-and-desist order and fines of up to $10,000 for each violation.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2025

People Magazine reported Henry had issued a cease-and-desist order last week against Payne after she alleged he repeatedly contacted her.

From Salon • Oct. 17, 2024

"On the other side, you'll find a cease-and-desist order."

From The Status Civilization by Sheckley, Robert

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