ordain

Where does the word "ordain" come from? It comes from Latin ordinare, passing through Old French before entering English (1200s).

Ordain’s story begins in Latin: ordinare meant “to put in order.” From 'ordo', order. By medieval, the word had taken hold in Old French as ordener. Used for appointing priests. It reached English by 1200s as ordain. 'ordinary' and 'ordinance' share the root. Today, ordain means to make someone a priest; to decree.

1. Stage 1 · Latin · ancient ordinare "to put in order", from 'ordo', order.
2. Stage 2 · Old French · medieval ordener "to arrange; to consecrate", used for appointing priests.
3. Stage 3 · English · 1200s ordain "to appoint to office", 'ordinary' and 'ordinance' share the root.