What does ordinance mean?
An ordinance is a law or rule issued by an authority, especially a city, town, or other local government. Such ordinances commonly address practical matters such as building restrictions, public spaces, traffic, licensing, sanitation, or the use of public property. The word can also refer more generally to an authoritative rule or directive, though this broader sense is less common today. In ordinary public discussion, “ordinance” often carries a slightly formal or bureaucratic tone because it names an official rule rather than an informal custom or personal preference. It is especially familiar in American civic and legal contexts, where local governments enact ordinances as a primary form of regulation. In British English, the word is also used for official rules, although legislation and regulations may be more prominent in discussion of government action. Ordinal is not a standard form of this word; the usual plural is “ordinances.”
A law or rule made by a local government or other authority, especially a municipal government.
"The council debated a proposed ordinance on short-term rentals."
This is the dominant modern meaning, particularly in American English.
An authoritative rule, order, or directive established by an authority.
"The ordinance of the council prohibited anyone from entering the grounds without permission."
This broader sense is less common and often has a formal or historical tone.
The plural is formed by adding -s and is used for multiple laws, rules, or directives.
"The city has adopted several ordinances governing street vendors."
The word “ordinance” sounds official, and that is exactly what it is: it names a rule issued by an authority, most often a city or town.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ordinance come from?
The word comes through Old French ordonnance from Latin ordinare, meaning “to arrange” or “put in order.” Its development reflects the idea of putting affairs into a prescribed order, especially through an authoritative command. The same root appears in words such as ordinary, coordinate, ordinate, and ordination, although their modern meanings have become specialized.
Related word forms
How ordinance is actually used
In modern English, “ordinance” most often refers to a local law, especially in the United States. It can sound formal or bureaucratic, although the word itself is neutral. In some contexts, “ordinance” may be used more generally for an authoritative rule or command.