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Showing results for ordain. Search instead for ordainm.
Definitions

ordain

[awr-deyn] / ɔrˈdeɪn /
VERB
establish, install
Synonyms
STRONGEST
anoint appoint bless consecrate elect enact nominate
STRONG
call commission constitute deal decree delegate destine dictate enjoin fix frock impose institute invest legislate order prescribe pronounce rule set will
WEAK
deal with lay down the law put foot down walk heavy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore refuse veto
STRONG
conceal deny disorganize halt keep neglect prevent receive stop
WEAK
cancel disallow retract void

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Many Thai men also choose to temporarily ordain as monks to accumulate good karma.

From BBC • Jul. 16, 2025

But first they would ordain, for a time, as a Buddhist monk and nun.

From New York Times • Dec. 13, 2023

The SBC ousted Saddleback Church in Costa Mesa, once the second-largest megachurch in the denomination, earlier this year over its decision to ordain female pastors.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2023

It also acknowledged the need to train more Afaan Oromo speaking priests and agreed to ordain more ethnic Oromos among high ranking clergy, it said in a statement.

From Reuters • Feb. 16, 2023

Then Scythe Mandela said, “Ransom Paladini, we have chosen not to ordain you as a scythe. Wherever life leads you, we wish you well. You are dismissed.”

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman