1. A standard or rule of conduct; a command or principle ( several legal precepts govern here). [Cases: Courts 87–100. C.J.S. Courts §§ 135–136, 139–164, 166–169; Trade-Marks, Trade-Names, and Unfair Competition§ 187.]
2. A writ or warrant issued by an authorized person demanding another’s action, such as a judge’s order to an officer to bring a party before the court (the sheriff executed the precept immediately). [Cases: Courts 189.]