ordonnance

[ awr-dn-uhns; French awr-daw-nahns ]

noun

, plural or·don·nanc·es [awr, -dn-, uh, n-siz, aw, r, -daw-, nahns].

1. the arrangement or disposition of parts, as of a building, picture, or literary work.
2. an ordinance, decree, or law.

ordonnance

/ ˈɔːdənəns; ɔrdɔnɑ̃s /

noun

1. the proper disposition of the elements of a building or an artistic or literary composition
2. an ordinance, law, or decree, esp in French law

Other Words From

• ordon·nant adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ordonnance¹

1635–45; < French, alteration of Old French ordenance ordinance, by influence of donner to give

Word History and Origins

Origin of ordonnance¹

C17: from Old French ordenance arrangement, influenced by ordonner to order

Example Sentences

In the general arrangement, in the ordonnance, late Gothic caprice and fantastic love of the unforeseen rule triumphant.

From Project Gutenberg

The ordonnance of April 15, 1694, reveals the broad character of this "General" Hospital.

From Project Gutenberg

Sportsmen may learn that partridge shooting was prohibited between March 15th and July 15th by an ordonnance of MM.

From Project Gutenberg

The same variety is found in the arrangement, or ordonnance, of the columns, both in the interior and exterior of their buildings.

From Project Gutenberg

These companies of ordonnance have ever been regarded as the foundation of the French standing army.

From Project Gutenberg