Main Entry: fi·at

Pronunciation: \ˈfē-ət, -ˌat, -ˌät; ˈfī-ət, -ˌat\

Function: noun

Etymology: Latin, let it be done, 3d singular present subjunctive of fieri to become, be done — more at be

Date: circa 1631

1 : a command or act of will that creates something without or as if without further effort
2 : an authoritative determination : dictate <a fiat of conscience>
3 : an authoritative or arbitrary order : decree <government by fiat>