dictates; dictated; dictating
1
: to speak or read (something) to a person who writes it down or to a machine that records it
She's dictating a letter to her secretary.
2
: to say or state (something) with authority or power
They insisted on being able to dictate the terms of surrender.
3
: to make (something) necessary
Our choice of activities will likely be dictated [=determined, controlled] by the weather.
His health dictates [=requires] that he work at home.
Tradition dictates that the youngest member should go first.
The basket's function dictates its size and shape.
plural dictates
formal
1
: an order or direction given with authority
—usually plural
They don't allow any disagreement with the dictates of the party.
2
: a rule or principle that guides something (such as an activity or a person's behavior)
—usually plural
She tried to live her life according to the dictates of her conscience.
We pay no attention to the dictates of fashion.
the dictates of common sense
Cite this Entry
“Dictate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/dictate. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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