Ordinance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ordinance
[ˈɔːrdɪnəns ]
Definition
government
An ordinance is a local law or regulation made by a city or town government. It is usually about matters such as safety, health, morals, or welfare.
Synonyms
law, regulation, rule.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ordinance |
Usually used to describe a law or regulation enacted by a municipal authority, often relating to local issues such as zoning, noise, and parking.
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| regulation |
Rules made by authorities, often within a specific industry or sector, to control activities and ensure compliance with standards or policies.
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| law |
Broad term used for rules established by a governing authority, involving areas such as criminal, civil, and administrative matters. Can be local, state, or federal.
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| rule |
A guideline or principle governing conduct within a particular activity, organization, or field. Often less formal than laws or regulations.
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Examples of usage
- The city council passed an ordinance banning smoking in public parks.
- The new ordinance requires all businesses to recycle their waste.
- The ordinance prohibits parking on the street overnight.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Framework
- Ordinances are often created to address local issues, such as zoning, health codes, and safety regulations.
- They can vary widely in scope, from noise control to building regulations.
- Public hearings are usually required before an ordinance can be enacted, allowing community input.
Historical Significance
- The first known ordinances date back to ancient civilizations, regulating everything from trade to public conduct.
- In the U.S., many cities adopted ordinances to address issues raised during the Industrial Revolution, such as sanitation and housing.
- Famous ordinances include the Prohibition Laws in the early 20th century, which forbade the sale of alcohol.
Contemporary Relevance
- Many modern cities use ordinances to tackle contemporary issues like environmental protection and public health.
- Ordinances can also lead to local debates on topics such as gun control, minimum wage, and housing development.
- Amendments to ordinance laws can occur to reflect changing community values and needs.
Famous Examples
- The New York City Cabaret Law, an ordinance that regulates live music performances in bars, sparked discussions about artistic expression.
- San Francisco's 'Soda Tax' ordinance aimed to reduce sugary drink consumption for health benefits and was controversial among businesses.
- Various cities have ordinances regarding the use of plastic bags, aimed at reducing environmental impact.
Origin of 'ordinance'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated from the Latin word 'ordinantia', which means arrangement or order.
- In Middle English, it appeared as 'ordinance,' emphasizing the concept of setting rules.
- Over time, its usage broadened to include regulations passed by local governments.
The word 'ordinance' has its origins in Old French and Latin, ultimately deriving from the Latin word 'ordinantia' meaning 'arrangement' or 'order'. It has been used in English since the 13th century to refer to laws or regulations established by authorities.