Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To be ordained; to enter the Christian ministry: To formally become a member of the clergy, such as a priest or deacon, through a religious ceremony.
   • To receive and be expected to follow directions or commands: To accept instructions from someone in authority and act according to them.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase (Religious ordination): After years of study, she will take orders next spring. He took orders and began his life as a parish priest.

• Verb phrase (Receive commands): A good soldier must learn to take orders without question. I run my own department; I don't take orders from junior staff.

Advanced Usage

• "To take holy orders": This is a more specific variant for the religious meaning, emphasizing the sacred nature of the commitment. He felt a calling to take holy orders and serve the church.

• The phrase often implies a hierarchy. The person giving the orders is in a position of authority over the person who takes them. In this company, everyone has a boss they must take orders from.

Variants and Related Words

• Take order (verb phrase): This singular form is not standard for the definitions above. It can sometimes mean to accept a single command or, more commonly, to receive a customer's request in a restaurant or shop.

Synonyms

• For "receive commands": Obey instructions, follow directives, heed commands.
• For "be ordained": Be commissioned, enter the priesthood, be consecrated.

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Take orders from (someone): Specifies the source of the authority.

Related Idioms

• Not take orders from anyone: Used to express independence or a refusal to be subservient.

Verb

1. be ordained; enter the Christian ministry
   • She took orders last month
2. receive and be expected to follow directions or commands
   • I don't take orders from you!