<p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>to say or read (something) aloud for another person to transcribe or for a machine to record: to dictate some letters to a secretary.</li><li>to prescribe or lay down authoritatively or peremptorily; command unconditionally: to dictate peace terms to a conquered enemy.</li></ul><p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>an authoritative order or command.</li><li>a guiding or governing principle, requirement, etc.: to follow the dictates of one's conscience.</li></ul>