Precept — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈprē-ˌsept/ pre·cept

Meaning & Definition of Precept

Precept (noun)

  1. a command or principle intended especially as a general rule of action
  2. an order issued by legally constituted authority to a subordinate official

Precept (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a statement by an authority of how people should behave

    "the moral precepts of a religion"

    similar: axiom, fundamental, maxim, bylaw, ground rule, rule, reg, regulation, code, constitution, decalogue, directory, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition, proscription, restriction, convention, custom, habit, manners, mores, practice, tradition, way, blueprint, canon, formula, guide, guideline, standard

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Precept

The most common words with a similar meaning to Precept:

axiom, fundamental, maxim, bylaw, ground rule, rule, reg, regulation, code, constitution, decalogue, directory, act, law, ordinance, statute, behest, charge, command, commandment, decree, dictate, direction, directive, edict, fiat, instruction, order, moral, principle, value, ban, interdiction, prohibition, proscription, restriction, convention, custom, habit, manners

Origin & Etymology of Precept

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin praeceptum, from neuter of praeceptus, past participle of praecipere to take beforehand, instruct, from prae- + capere to take heave:1

First known use: 14th century

Frequently Asked Questions about Precept

What does "Precept" mean?

"Precept" means a command or principle intended especially as a general rule of action. As a noun, it is defined as: a command or principle intended especially as a general rule of action.

What is another word for "Precept"?

Other words for "Precept" include axiom, fundamental, maxim, bylaw, ground rule, rule, reg and regulation. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Precept" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Precept"?

There are 50 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Precept". Common alternatives include axiom, fundamental, maxim, bylaw, ground rule, rule, reg, regulation, code and constitution.

How do you use "Precept" in a sentence?

Examples of "Precept" in a sentence: "the moral precepts of a religion".

Is "Precept" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Precept" is a noun.

How do you pronounce "Precept"?

"Precept" is pronounced /ˈprē-ˌsept/ and divided into syllables as pre·cept.

What is the origin of the word "Precept"?

"Precept" comes from Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin praeceptum, from neuter of praeceptus, past participle of praecipere to take beforehand, instruct, from prae- + capere to take heave:1. First known use: 14th century.

What is another word for "Precept" meaning "a statement by an authority of how people should behave"?

When "Precept" (noun) means a statement by an authority of how people should behave, synonyms include axiom, fundamental, maxim, bylaw, ground rule and rule.