consent decree

noun

: a judicial decree that sanctions a voluntary agreement between parties in dispute

Examples of consent decree in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The referendum was the result of a consent decree between the UAW and the Justice Department after the lengthy prosecutions of union leaders on corruption charges. Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 20 Feb. 2026 The Rampart case ultimately led to a federal consent decree, court oversight of the Police Department and a series of reforms. Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026 Fulton County previously operated under a separate consent decree beginning in 2005. La'tasha Givens, CBS News, 3 Feb. 2026 The creation of such a position is a requirement of the consent decree. Shelly Bradbury, Denver Post, 2 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for consent decree

Word History

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of consent decree was in 1822

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Cite this Entry

“Consent decree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consent%20decree. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

Legal Definition

consent decree

see also:
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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