ordine

Ordine is an Italian noun with several related meanings. Derived from Latin ordo, ordinis, it denotes arrangement in sequence, a rank or hierarchy, or a command issued by an authority. In ordinary speech, it can refer to orderliness or tidiness, a sequence of events, or a social or political order.

In law, governance, and administration, the term conveys both normative authority and the system of norms that regulate a society. Phrases such as ordine pubblico (public order) and ordine giuridico (the legal order) reflect this sense. A local regulation is usually called un’ordinanza, while an overall legal framework is described as l’ordinamento.

In religious contexts, ordine commonly designates a religious order or confraternity, such as the Order of Saint Benedict. In Catholic usage, Ordo is the Latin equivalent used in formal names; many orders are known by their Italian "Ordine" in everyday language.

In science and mathematics, ordine denotes degree, magnitude, or rank. Common phrases include ordine di grandezza (order of magnitude) and the order of an element or permutation within a group, as well as discussions of the order of a sequence or function.

As a surname and in toponymy, Ordine appears as a personal name in Italian-speaking contexts and may appear in geographic names or organizational titles. The word thus serves as a versatile term across linguistics, law, religion, and mathematics.