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
Dictionary entry overview: What does edict mean? â¢ EDICT (noun) The noun EDICT has 2 senses: 1. a formal or authoritative proclamation 2. a legally binding command or decision entered on the court record (as if issued by a court or judge) Familiarity information: EDICT used as a noun is rare.