Definition of: dictate

(dik′tāt, dik·tāt′) v. ·tat·ed, ·tat·ing v.t.
1. To utter or read aloud (something) to be recorded by another, as by writing.
2. To give, impose, or prescribe authoritatively, as commands, terms, rules, etc.
—v.i.
3. To utter aloud something to be recorded by another.
4. To give orders.
—noun (dik′tāt)
1. An authoritative suggestion or prompting; a rule, precept, or maxim.
2. A positive order. [<L dictatus, pp. of dictare, freq. of dicere say, speak] Synonyms (verb): command, decree, direct, enjoin, order, prescribe, require. See SPEAK. Antonyms: accept, follow, obey, submit, yield.