ordinance

/ˈɔrdənəns/
noun
  1. A law or rule made by a local government or authority.
    • The city passed an ordinance banning smoking in parks.
    • According to the local ordinance, you cannot park on the street overnight.
    • The town council voted on a new noise ordinance.
  2. A religious practice or ceremony, especially in Christianity.
    • The pastor explained the meaning of the ordinance of foot washing.
    • Baptism is an important ordinance in many churches.
    • The congregation observed the ordinance of communion every Sunday.