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

The White House is considering a cybersecurity-focused executive order that could include formalizing a government oversight group to create standards for the most powerful AI models, The Wall Street Journal reported Monday.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

The president signed an executive order on Friday that further curtails Havana’s access to the global banking system.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

The executive order instructs the Treasury Department to launch a new website, TrumpIRA.gov, by the beginning of 2027.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

President Trump signed an executive order to boost retirement savings, targeting the 42% of private sector workers without employer plans.

From Barron's • Apr. 30, 2026

By executive order President Truman desegregated the military in 1948, raising expectations among black Americans that conditions would improve even more.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson