ORDER, in Rhetoric, is the placing of each word and member of a sentence in such a manner, as will most contribute to the force, beauty, or evidence of the whole; according to the genius and custom of different languages. With regard to order, we may observe in general, that, in English, the nearer we keep to the natural or grammatical order, it is generally the best; but in Latin, we are to follow the use of the best writers; a joint regard being always had to the judgment of the ear, and the perspicuity of the sense, in both languages.
ORDER is also used for a class or division of the members of the body of a state; with regard to assemblies, precedence, &c.
In this sense, order is a kind of dignity, which, under the same name, is common to several persons; and which, of itself, does not give them any particular public authority, but only rank, and a capacity of arriving at honours and employments.
To abridge this definition, order may be said to be a dignity attended with an aptitude for public employ. By which it is distinguished from an office, which is the exercise of a public trust.
In this sense, nobility is an order, &c. The clericate is also an order, &c.
ORDER is also the title of certain ancient books, containing the divine office, with the order and manner of its performance.
Roman order is that wherein are laid down the ceremonies which obtain in the Romish church. See RITUAL.