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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- enacts
- Past tense
- enacted
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").
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.
