Definition of dictate
- v. t. - To tell or utter so that another may write down; to
inspire; to compose; as, to dictate a letter to an amanuensis.
- v. t. - To say; to utter; to communicate authoritatively; to
deliver (a command) to a subordinate; to declare with authority; to
impose; as, to dictate the terms of a treaty; a general dictates orders
to his troops.
- v. i. - To speak as a superior; to command; to impose
conditions (on).
- v. i. - To compose literary works; to tell what shall be
written or said by another.
- v. t. - A statement delivered with authority; an order; a
command; an authoritative rule, principle, or maxim; a prescription;
as, listen to the dictates of your conscience; the dictates of the
gospel.