ordain - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ordain Word Meanings
- to officially make someone a priest or minister
- to establish or order something
- to decree or command.
ordain Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ordain Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɔːˈdeɪn/
US
/ɔrˈdeɪn/
ordain Word Etymology
Ordain: 'or-' = to put/place + 'dain' = to appoint. Originating from Latin 'ordinare' → Old French 'ordonner' → English. Imagine a ceremonial setting where a bishop raises his hands to bless and place someone in a sacred role.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Ordain is a formal verb meaning to officially appoint someone to a sacred office, most often in a religious setting, such as a bishop ordaining a priest. It can also mean to establish or order something by decree, to command or appoint with authority. The etymology traces to Latin ordinare, via Old French ordonner, and into English with ceremonial gravity. In everyday use, ordain is uncommon outside official contexts and should not be confused with simply choosing someone for a job. The term carries solemnity and ritual weight, especially when describing clergy; learners should respect the tone and reserve ordain for formal, hierarchical actions.
Usage Reminders
- Remember the sacred tone; use ordain only for formal religious appointments or solemn decrees. Do not use ordain for casual hires or everyday orders. It often pairs with phrases like 'to ordain someone' or 'to be ordained.' Treat it as ceremonial, not administrative. Compare with appoint in secular contexts, which sounds lighter. Don’t confuse with decree in a purely secular sense. Be mindful of the historical and church-specific uses. Practice with clergy-related topics to internalize the register.
Common Misconceptions
- Ordain = appoint in all contexts
- Ordain is only a religious ritual with no secular use
- Ordain and decree are interchangeable
- Ordain means to bless casually
- Ordain is common in modern everyday life
Thinking Differences
Think of ordain as a ceremonial, authority-driven act. In English, it sits on the formal end of the spectrum, unlike secular hiring terms like appoint; learners may overuse it in nonreligious contexts or swap it with decree.
Learning Tips
- Link ordain with religious ceremony vocabulary like bishop, priest, sacrament
- Compare with appoint for secular contexts to avoid tone mistakes
- Watch for passive constructions like 'to be ordained' in biographies
- Practice using with clergy-related scenarios to feel the ceremonial register
- Avoid overuse in modern business or casual writing
- Check historical texts to see older usage and nuance
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'ordain'?
A.Prohibit
B.Authorize
C.Predict
D.Remember
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'ordain' used correctly?
A.The priest ordained the new ministers.
B.She predicted the outcome of the event.
C.He prohibited the ceremony to proceed.
D.They remembered to study for the test.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'ordain'?
A.Endorse
B.Neglect
C.Disrupt
D.Prevent
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'ordain'?
A.Allow
B.Prohibit
C.Command
D.Suggest
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'ordain' applied in a real-world context?
A.A chef predicts the taste of a new recipe.
B.A pilot remembers the safety procedures before takeoff.
C.A judge ordains the legal proceedings in court.
D.A teacher prohibits students from using cellphones in class.
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