Pronunciation: [ɔːdˈe͡ɪn] (IPA) 
The word "ordain" is a verb that means "to establish or enact by law, edict, or decree". Its spelling can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /ɔːrˈdeɪn/. The first syllable "or" is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɔːr/ as in "more" or "floor". The second syllable "dain" is pronounced with the dipthong sound /eɪ/ as in "day". The stress is on the second syllable, as indicated by the apostrophe in the transcription.
The verb "ordain" has multiple definitions and can be used both in a religious or secular context. In religious terms, "ordain" typically refers to the act of officially conferring or appointing someone to the priesthood or another religious office. It implicates a ceremonious process where a person is vested with the authority and responsibilities associated with a particular role within a religious institution. This can include the authority to officiate at religious ceremonies, administer sacraments, and provide spiritual guidance to followers. The act of ordaining often involves rituals, prayers, and the laying on of hands.
In a broader sense, "ordain" can also mean to establish, decree, or command something with authority or divine sanction. This usage extends beyond religious contexts and can be applied to various spheres of life. For example, one can ordain a set of laws or regulations, thereby creating a system of rules that govern a community or organization. In this sense, "ordain" denotes the authoritative establishment or sanctioning of norms or principles. It can also be used to imply an inevitable or fated occurrence, as if predetermined or predestined. Overall, "ordain" encompasses the notions of appointment, authorization, institutionalization, and the act of imparting divine or lawful authority.
To appoint; to decree; to establish; to institute; to invest with ministerial or sacerdotal functions.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "ordain" has a Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "ordinare", which means "to arrange, appoint, or regulate". This Latin term later influenced Old French, eventually becoming the English word "ordain". The Latin "ordinare" is derived from the noun "ordo", meaning "order" or "rank". Thus, the etymology of "ordain" conveys the idea of arranging or appointing someone to a specific rank or order, which is often associated with religious or formal ceremonies.
