A piece of legislation enacted by a municipal authority. noun
The city council passed a new ordinance to regulate parking in the downtown area.
Residents are required to follow the noise ordinance to avoid penalties.
An authoritative order or decree. noun
The king issued an ordinance that all subjects must pay a new tax.
The ordinance prohibited the use of fireworks within city limits.
A prescribed religious rite. noun
The church observes the ordinance of baptism as a sacred ceremony.
Communion is considered an important ordinance in many Christian denominations.