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verb Uncommon

enact

ih-NAKT

Enact (verb) means to officially pass a bill into law. Example: “Parliament enacted the new tax law last spring.”

verb
1
To officially pass a bill into law.
"Parliament enacted the new tax law last spring."
"The reforms were enacted after months of debate."
2
To perform or act out a role or scene.
"The students enacted a scene from the play for their final project."

How to use enact

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo make something official law, or to act something out.

Common mistake

Mainly used for laws and policies being passed — not everyday "carrying out" of a plan.

Common pairings
enact a law enact legislation enact reforms

Word forms

enacted past tense, enacts singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Parliament _____ the new tax law last spring.

Etymology

From Middle English enacten, from en- ("to cause to be") plus Old French acte ("act, deed"), ultimately from Latin agere ("to do, drive").

Origin: Latin

reenact ordain act out

Related words

Rhymes for enact

See all rhymes for enact →

Frequently asked questions

What does “enact” mean?

The word “enact” means to officially pass a bill into law. In plain terms, to make something official law, or to act something out.

How do you pronounce “enact”?

“Enact” is pronounced ih-NAKT (/ɪˈnækt/ in IPA).

How do you use “enact” in a sentence?

Here is “enact” used in a sentence: “Parliament enacted the new tax law last spring.”

What part of speech is “enact”?

“Enact” is a verb.

Where does the word “enact” come from?

The word “enact” comes from Latin. From Middle English enacten, from en- ("to cause to be") plus Old French acte ("act, deed"), ultimately from Latin agere ("to do, drive").

Is “enact” a common word?

“Enact” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “enact” have?

“Enact” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to officially pass a bill into law.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial