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ordain Synonyms

Another word for ordain

Choosing another word for ordain depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To invest officially with ministerial, priestly, or rabbinical authority; to confer holy orders upon.

Usage Example

"The bishop will consecrate three new deacons at the cathedral this Sunday."

Strongest
consecrate
Strong
anoint
invest
appoint
install
induct

• verb (Context 2)

To order, decree, or establish officially by virtue of superior authority, law, or destiny.

Usage Example

"The constitutional convention voted to decree a new system of checks and balances."

Strongest
decree
enact
Strong
mandate
prescribe
establish
enjoin
predestine
fiat

Opposites of ordain

The opposite of ordain shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

unfrock
defrock
laicize
repeal
abolish
rescind
revoke
annul
See all opposites of ordain

• Nearby Words

orchid cactus
orchis
ord
ordain
ordainer
ordainment
ordeal

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Ordain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/ordain
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