executive order

noun

: regulation sense 2b

Examples of executive order in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Most housing initiatives were also handled by executive order, rather than through legislation. — Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 2 Nov. 2026

Hochul signed an executive order in October assigning New York Attorney General Letitia James as special prosecutor to investigate the case. — Kelsie Cairns, FOXNews.com, 1 Nov. 2026

Under DeSantis’ executive order, Espinosa may not perform any official duties or receive pay during her suspension. — Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026

The Supreme Court acquiesces to the administration’s executive orders. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for executive order

• boarder
• border
• corder
• warder
• camcorder
• disorder
• recorder
• reorder
• suborder
• transborder

Legal Definition

executive order

noun

: an order issued by a government's executive on the basis of authority specifically granted to the executive branch (as by the U.S. Constitution or a congressional act)

the National Security Agency was created by an executive order

compare proclamation, statute

Note: An executive order from the president does not have the force of law until it is printed in the Federal Register.