An EDICT is a formal proclamation or order issued by a ruler or government, often having the force of law. It is usually issued in written form and is often used to declare a new law, policy, or regulation. The term 'EDICT' is derived from the Latin word edictum, which means 'something declared'. A decree is a type of EDICT that is issued by a court or other judicial body. Decrees are legally binding and have the force of law.