legislate

leg·is·late

verb \ˈle-jəs-ˌlāt\

leg·is·lat·edleg·is·lat·ing

Definition of LEGISLATE

intransitive verb

: to perform the function of legislation; specifically : to make or enact laws

transitive verb

: to mandate, establish, or regulate by or as if by legislation

Examples of LEGISLATE

1. They are attempting to legislate morality.
2. the need to better legislate foreign trade
3. trying to legislate changes in the current law

Origin of LEGISLATE

back-formation from legislator

First Known Use: 1805

Related to LEGISLATE

Synonyms: constitute, lay down, enact, make, ordain, pass

Antonyms: repeal, rescind, revoke

Related Words: reenact, repass; bring about, effect; allow, authorize, permit, sanction; decree, dictate, proclaim; administer, execute; approve, confirm, ratify

Near Antonyms: abolish, abrogate, annul, cancel, invalidate, kill, nullify; overturn, reverse, void

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Other Government and Politics Terms

agent provocateur, agitprop, autarky, cabal, egalitarianism, federalism, hegemony, plenipotentiary, popular sovereignty, socialism

Rhymes with LEGISLATE

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