executive order

American  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of executive order

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

Earlier this year, Mayor Karen Bass signed an executive order to streamline the recruitment process, and department officials say it is now showing positive results.

From Los Angeles Times

“In my mind, we were playing a long gamble on the courts challenging the executive orders, so that’s good news,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s called simple human decency, and it’s something no amount of executive orders can teach.

From Salon

His first wave of executive orders included a pause for federal permits and leasing for wind projects on land and at sea, which plunged the industry into months of uncertainty.

From The Wall Street Journal

His wide-ranging use of the legally-binding directives has been nothing short of historic: He has signed more than 200 executive orders on everything from TikTok to tariffs since taking office in January.

From Barron's