Synonyms of legislate

legislate

verb

ˈle-jə-ˌslāt 

as in to enact

to put into effect through legislative or authoritative action

wants the Congress to legislate new laws banning the use of these types of weapons

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enact
• pass
• constitute
• approve
• make
• dictate
• ordain
• lay down
• ratify
• authorize
• permit
• sanction
• effect
• proclaim
• bring about
• reenact
• allow
• administer
• execute
• decree
• repass
• confirm

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• repeal
• revoke
• rescind
• abolish
• kill
• cancel
• invalidate
• reverse
• nullify
• abrogate
• annul
• void
• overturn

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of legislate

Those ideas can’t be legislated into existence, yet institutions, social movements, customs, and habits can shape them over time. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026

The White House, much like Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), views the recess as a balancing act between legislating and giving members more time to make their case to constituents. — Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 19 Sep. 2026

In the run-up to November’s midterm elections, potshots at opponents have been coming fast and hard in advertisements and social media, while legislating on Capitol Hill has slowed to a crawl. — The Monitor's Editorial Board, Christian Science Monitor, 15 Sep. 2026

Pappas has largely legislated as a moderate and is a member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus. — Garrett Downs, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2026