1766, in reference to Protestants, from dissident (adj.). In the political sense first used 1940, coinciding with the rise of 20c. totalitarian systems, especially with reference to the Soviet Union. Online Etymology Dictionary, Â© 2010 Douglas Harper Cite This Source
Decree (verb) to determine judicially by authority, or by decree; to constitute by edict; to appoint by decree or law; to determine; to order; to ordain; as, a court decrees a restoration of property Decree (verb) to ordain by fate
act, enactment-a legal document codifying the result of deliberations of a committee or society or legislative body. consent decree-an agreement between two parties that is sanctioned by the court; for example, a company might agree to stop certain questionable practices without admitting guilt. curfew-an order that after a specific time certain activities (as being outside on the streets) are prohibited.