What does decalogue mean?
The decalogue is a formal or literary name for the Ten Commandments, the biblical set of moral and religious precepts that figures prominently in Jewish and Christian traditions. It can also refer more broadly to a code of ten principles or rules, especially when a writer presents such rules as a governing system for individuals or society. The word is uncommon in casual conversation but appears in religious writing, historical discussion, philosophy, and literature. Its elevated tone can suggest solemnity, authority, or an echo of biblical law. Because the biblical Decalogue is so widely recognized, readers will usually understand the reference even when the phrase is used figuratively. The term is also especially associated with discussions of divine command, moral obligation, and systems of ethical regulation.
nounThe Decalogue, the Ten Commandments, especially as a set of moral or religious laws. By extension, a formal set of ten principles or rules.
- The Ten Commandments, especially as a set of moral or religious laws; by extension, a formal set of ten principles or rules.
"The preacher asked the congregation to consider the Decalogue in the context of everyday ethical choices."
"The rabbi's sermon centered on the Decalogue and its continuing relevance to ethical life."
"In the novel, the ruler issues a brutal decalogue that suppresses every form of dissent."
The plural is uncommon and is chiefly used when comparing distinct sets of commandments or principles.
"The scholar compared two ancient decalogues and the different emphases of their moral teaching."
Decalogue comes from Greek words meaning “ten” and “word,” a fitting name for a set of ten commandments.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of decalogue
The word comes from Greek dekalogos, a compound of deka, meaning “ten,” and logos, meaning “word” or “account.” It was adopted into English in religious contexts as a name for the Ten Commandments. English words such as decade and decagon share the element deka, while dialogue and epilogue reflect the related Greek element logos.
How decalogue is actually used
The word is formal and literary rather than everyday. “The Decalogue” is commonly capitalized when referring specifically to the biblical Ten Commandments; lowercase use often suggests a broader symbolic code or set of rules.