dictate

dic-tate · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To say words aloud for someone else to write down or record.

  2. 2.

    To give orders authoritatively; to impose one's will on others.

  3. 3.

    To determine or control something.

  4. 4.

    (noun) An authoritative order or command.

Phrases & expressions

  • dictate terms — to impose conditions on others
  • dictate to someone — to give orders to someone

Related words

Antonyms: follow, obey

Etymology

From Latin dictare ("to say repeatedly, prescribe"), frequentative of dicere ("to say").