Mandate
/ˈmæn.deɪt/noun
An official order or command.
Did you know?In ancient Rome, a 'mandatum' was not just an order but a binding call to action, often invoking the weight of the law and divine authority.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
mandatum
“A commission or command, derived from mandare, meaning 'to order'.”
Late Latin
Late Latin
mandare
“To entrust, to give into one's hand.”
Early Middle Ages
Old French
mandat
“A formal order or directive.”
14th Century
Middle English
mandat
“A written order, especially in a legal context.”
Modern English
English
mandate
“An authoritative command or instruction, often used in political or legal contexts.”