Fiat

/ˈfaɪæt/ · noun

Meaning

An arbitrary or authoritative command or order to do something; an effectual decree..

Definitions by Sense

1. An arbitrary or authoritative command or order to do something; an effectual decree.
2. Authorization, permission or (official) sanction.
3. (English law) A warrant of a judge for certain processes.
4. (English law) An authority for certain proceedings given by the Lord Chancellor's signature.
5. (attributive) (Pertaining to) fiat currency.
6. (transitive, used in academic debate and role-playing games) To make (something) happen.
7. (transitive, law) To issue a fiat.

Example Sentences

A royal fiat.

A presidential fiat.

The reflection that the fate of a fellow-creature depended on his sole fiat, would naturally inspire scrupulousness and caution; [...]

Beatrice raised her head: she looked at me as if on my words hung the fiat of life or death, fear and earnestness dilating her dark eyes—for an unconfessed hope had arisen within her.

It must be an absolute fiat - something of the nature of a Mystery or of Religion or Magic - and not to be disputed.

The increases from December 4 in the prices of table d'hôte meals in British Railways restaurant cars were expected, in view both of a general upward trend in meal prices in the catering trade and of the fiat that train meals must pay for themselves.

A government fiat.

To rule by fiat.

Synonyms for fiat

Antonyms for fiat

Related Words

Word Forms

• fiats
• fiating
• fiated

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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