to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record

to dictate some letters to a secretary.

to prescribe or lay down authoritatively or peremptorily; command unconditionally

to dictate peace terms to a conquered enemy.

to say or read aloud something to be written down by a person or recorded by a machine.

to give orders.

an authoritative order or command.

a guiding or governing principle, requirement, etc.

to follow the dictates of one's conscience.

noun

request

verb

ask , implore , request

noun

behest , bidding , code , decree , dictum , direction , edict , fiat , injunction , law , mandate , order , ordinance , precept , principle , requirement , statute , ultimatum , word , charge , commandment , directive , instruction , prescript , regulation , rubric

verb

bid , bulldoze * , call the play , call the shots * , call the tune , charge , control , decree , direct , enjoin , govern , guide , impose , instruct , lay down , lay down the law , lead , manage , ordain , order , prescribe , pronounce , put foot down , read the riot act , regiment , rule , set , take the reins , walk heavy , compose , deliver , draft correspondence , emit , formulate , give account , give forth , interview , orate , prepare draft , say , speak , talk , transmit , utter , verbalize , fix , dominate , domineer , tyrannize , command , communicate , mandate , record , require , tell