enact

verb

en·​act i-ˈnakt How to pronounce enact (audio)
enacted; enacting; enacts
Synonyms of enact

transitive verb

1
: to establish by legal and authoritative act
specifically : to make into law
enact a bill
2
: act out
enact a role
enactor
i-ˈnak-tər How to pronounce enact (audio)
noun

Synonyms of enact

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Examples of enact in a Sentence

Congress will enact legislation related to that issue. The law was finally enacted today.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
They were first enacted in 2021 during the Biden administration. — Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 The larger backlash against Big Tech New laws aiming to mitigate the potential harms of social media on kids are already being proposed and enacted across the country. — Shannon Bond, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026 In addition to managing facilities, his other priorities include enacting policies or resources to ensure students are successful beyond graduation and focusing on student mental health and well-being. — Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 27 Aug. 2026 Miami Beach Miami Beach has enacted local laws governing micromobility use. — Amaia Gavica, Miami Herald, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for enact

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of enact was in the 15th century

Rhymes for enact

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Browse Nearby Words

enabler
enact
enaction
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Cite this Entry

“Enact.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enact. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

enact

verb
en·​act in-ˈakt How to pronounce enact (audio)
1
: to make (as a bill) into law
enact legislation
2
: to act out
enact a scene from a play
enactor
-ˈak-tər How to pronounce enact (audio)
noun

Legal Definition

enact

transitive verb
en·​act i-ˈnakt How to pronounce enact (audio)
: to establish by legal and authoritative act : make into law
enact a bill
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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