precept

noun

pre·​cept ˈprē-ˌsept 

1

: a command or principle intended especially as a general rule of action

2

: an order issued by legally constituted authority to a subordinate official

Choose the Right Synonym for precept

law, rule, regulation, precept, statute, ordinance, canon mean a principle governing action or procedure.

law implies imposition by a sovereign authority and the obligation of obedience on the part of all subject to that authority.

obey the law

rule applies to more restricted or specific situations.

the rules of the game

regulation implies prescription by authority in order to control an organization or system.

regulations affecting nuclear power plants

precept commonly suggests something advisory and not obligatory communicated typically through teaching.

the precepts of effective writing

statute implies a law enacted by a legislative body.

a statute requiring the use of seat belts

ordinance applies to an order governing some detail of procedure or conduct enforced by a limited authority such as a municipality.

a city ordinance

canon suggests in nonreligious use a principle or rule of behavior or procedure commonly accepted as a valid guide.

the canons of good taste

Examples of precept in a Sentence

the basic precepts of a religion

I was taught by precept and by example.

Recent Examples on the Web

Shi was also alleged to have committed criminal offenses and violated Buddhist precepts by maintaining relationships with multiple women over a long period and fathering at least one child, according to a notice from the temple’s authority on its WeChat account at that time. —Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026

Let’s ruminate on that precept of aiming to use AI to disprove or find a counterexample, rather than solely being used to prove something outright. —Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026

On May 6, 2026, a historic ceremony was held where a robot received the Buddhist precepts from a monk. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 6 May 2026

Yet, their rise did contribute to the prevention of the power of a single individual who would thwart the precepts of the Constitution. —Richard Davis, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin praeceptum, from neuter of praeceptus, past participle of praecipere to take beforehand, instruct, from prae- + capere to take — more at heave entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for precept

• accept
• adept
• except
• inept
• sidestepped
• transept
• windswept
• crept
• kept
• leaped
• leapt
• prepped

Kids Definition

precept

noun

pre·​cept ˈprē-ˌsept 

: a command or principle intended as a general rule of action